Assessment of the Social Impact of the Institutionalization of Orphans and Vulnerable Children in Orphanage Homes in Bayelsa Southern Nigeria

Abstract

The paper seeks to examine the social impacts of institutionalization of orphans and vulnerable children in orphanage homes in Bayelsa State. Some of the salient contemporary effects of institutionalization on orphans and vulnerable children include traumatic experiences, depression, cognitive decline, and personality disorder. The study x-rayed the socio-demographic characteristics of OSV in Bayelsa State, determined the social effects of OSV in Beyelsa State, and assessed the emotional and behavioral problems associated with OSV in Beyelsa State. The research is anchored on Abraham Maslow's need theory. The study adopted a survey descriptive method relying on a mixed method approach, using a questionnaire instrument; about 70 respondents (Orphan & vulnerable children) randomly selected across the three orphanage homes in Bayelsa were sampled. The findings revealed that loneliness, lack of parental love, low self-esteem, and emotional imbalances were some of the social and behavioral problems associated with orphans due to excessive institutionalization. The study recommended social support and the creation of a conducive atmosphere for informal interaction between teachers and orphans. Also, a show of love and empathy should be included in the orphans' socialization process.