The role of orphanage centers in psychosocial support and care for orphan children at Meki Catholic relief service

Abstract

The study focus on describing the role of orphanage centers in psychosocial support and care for orphan children at Meki catholic orphanage center. Psychosocial needs of children continue to be one of the most neglected areas of support without proper support mechanism upon the death of a parent children experience a profound sense of loss, grief, homelessness, fear and anxiety. In this study researchers used both quantitative and qualitative research methods. Questionnaire used as quantitative data gathering which include open and close ended questions, and the qualitative data was collected through interview by preparing semi structure interview guideline. The quantitative data which obtained through questionnaire was interpreted and shown by tables, percentages and frequency whereas the qualitative data in the thematic explanation form. The sampling technique that used in this study was both probability and non-probability. From probability sampling technique we used simple random sampling technique whereas in non probability we used purposive sampling technique. By using simple random we selected 30 samples from the total population whereas by using non probability sampling we selected 3 respondents of whom, one orphanage staff and two caregivers. The findings of this study reveal that the orphanage have very important role in providing material support, creating positive relationship, developing self-esteem of orphan like training by responsibility and telling them to focus on their strength. In addition, Care givers, teachers and stakeholders should establish a support system at different levels and play significant role to fulfill the psychosocial needs of orphan children.