A Comparative Study of Behavioural and Emotional Problems among Children Living In Orphanages in Ghana: A Mixed Method Approach

Abstract

This comparative study investigated behavioural and emotional problems among children living in selected private, public and religiously owned orphanages in Ghana. A mixed method approach was employed to achieve research objectives. Quantitative method was used to collect information with the use of questionnaires and a qualitative method was used to explore other facets of the study objectives through individual interviews. The study was carried out at three selected orphanages: SOS villages (private); Osu Children’s Home (public); and Lighthouse children’s home (religious). A total of 150 participants within the age range of 11 to 18years were sampled for quantitative data of which, 15 children between age 15 and 18 were sampled to obtain qualitative data. The 150 participants were conveniently sampled and administered with Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (Goodman, 1997) whilst the 15 participants in the interview were selected using systematic random sampling technique. Quantitative data were analyzed using MANOVA, Pearson correlation and Independent t-test in relation to stated hypotheses. Qualitative data were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) in relation to the research questions. Results from the quantitative data revealed that significant differences existed in terms of behavioural and emotional problems among children in orphanages. There was also a significant negative relationship between length of stay and behavioural and emotional problems. However, no difference was found between males and females in terms of emotional problems. Qualitative results revealed the emotional and behavioral problems as well as the coping strategies of children living in orphanages. Implications of the results are discussed in relation to other studies.