A Comparative Study of Personality Differences between Orphans and Non Orphans of Lahore

Abstract

Objective: The present research aimed at investigating the personality differences between institutionalized orphans (IO), non institutionalized orphans (NIO) and non orphan (NO) in adolescence. Design: Ex Post Facto Research Design Place and duration of study: The study was conducted in 5 orphanages and 12 schools of Lahore in duration of six months. Subjects and Methods: The sample consisted of 240 adolescents aged between 13 to 19 years; divided into three groups, namely: Non orphans (n=80); Institutionalized orphans (n=80) and Non institutionalized orphans (n=80). Non probability purposive sampling technique was used. Non orphans and non institutionalized orphans were drawn from twelve different schools and institutionalized orphans were drawn from five orphanages of Lahore, Pakistan. Tools used for assessment were Demographic Questionnaire and Child Personality Assessment Questionnaire (PAQ). Data was analyzed using One way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), Least Significant Difference (LSD) Post Hoc and Descriptive Statistics using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Results: Findings revealed that there is a significant difference in Hostility and World View of institutionalized orphans, non institutionalized orphans and non orphan adolescents. Whereas, there is no significant difference in Dependency, Self Esteem, Self Adequacy, Emotional Responsiveness and Emotional Stability among the three groups. Conclusion: The findings of this research will promote understanding of the personality development and problems of adolescents living in orphanages and those living with single or both parents.