RESIDENTIAL PLACEMENT AND EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING OF ORPHANS IN SELECTED STATES IN NIGERIA

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Orphans after the demise of their parents are often taken to live with family or institutionalized. Where Orphans reside and the care received are important to their emotional stability, social development and overall quality of life. The objective of this study was to examine the emotional well-being of orphans residing in family settings and orphanages in Nigeria with the aim of obtaining empirical data for appropriate recommendation for intervention and care of orphans. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey research design conducted across 5 states in Nigeria. The population comprised all orphans in Nigeria. Sample was determined using multi-stage sampling procedure. Sample size was determined and 3,883 orphans participated in the study. Data was obtained using structured questionnaires administered by trained field workers. Data obtained were analysed using frequency counts, percentages and two-sample t-test at 0.05 significance level to show the difference in emotional well-being of orphans based in orphanages and family settings. Results showed that 57.25% of orphans in Nigeria have low levels of emotional well-being, 27.50% exhibited moderate levels and 15.23% have high levels. A comparison of the emotional well-being levels of orphans in family settings and orphanages indicated a statistically significant difference in emotional well-being (t = 5.01, df = 3882, p < 0.05) with children in orphanages reporting higher well-being scores (8.84). The result obtained reflects differences in emotional well-being and the need to bridge the gap between the care accessible to orphans in the family settings and orphanages.

Keywords: Orphans, Emotional Well-being, Vulnerability and Orphans Residential placement