Adult Perceptions of Child Adjustment in Institutional versus Family Care in Ghana
Date
2024
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Journal of Child and Family Studies
Abstract
Research on institutional child care consistently has documented detrimental developmental outcomes. However, recent
work in Ghana revealed a range in patterns of adjustment among children living in institutional care. The developmental
patterns of children living in institutional care often were not significantly different from patterns seen among children living
in families. A grounded-theory approach was used to understand Ghanaian adults’ perceptions of adjustment of children
living in both institutional care and with families, and their beliefs about contributions to positive functioning. Qualitative
semi-structured interviews were conducted with 38 caregivers, social workers, and teachers recruited from the Accra region
in Ghana. Thematic analysis of responses was used to identify common themes described in the interviews. Interviews with
participants revealed beliefs that children may struggle in one or more areas while still having strengths. Having basic needs
met, a stable home, and a high level of adult support were the most common factors believed to contribute to positive
functioning in both groups of children. Future studies or interventions targeting these areas will likely gain buy-in from
stakeholders.
Description
Research Article
Keywords
Institutional care, Positive adjustment, Resilience