Care worker perspectives on the socio-emotional adjustment of orphans in residential homes

ABSTRACT

Orphans in Sub-Saharan Africa are often raised by relatives. Many end up in residential homes due to financial burdens on extended families. As a result, the socio-emotional development of orphans may be adversely affected. This paper explores care workers’ perspectives on the socio-emotional adjustment of orphans in residential homes. Qualitative methods were employed in which eleven male and female care workers from three residential homes for orphans were interviewed. The data was analysed using Thematic Analysis.Results suggest that non-care related duties in the home interfere with care workers’ responsivity to children. Relationships between care workers and children were positive; based on emotional support, listening, responsiveness, and trust. However, orphans tended to have difficulties adjusting to the residential home, expressing emotions, and making friends. Results also showed that orphans continue to deal with the loss of their parents and may, as a result, act in aggressive ways. Recommendations include improved access to psychosocial support and easing care workers’ workload to enable them to effectively aid orphans in navigating their socio-emotional challenges. The paper illustrates key insights into the socio-emotional adjustment of orphans from the perspectives of care workers caring for them.