Family Structure and the Psychological Wellbeing of Children in Bidibidi Refugee Settlement
No Thumbnail Available
Date
2025-05-23
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Uganda Christian University
Abstract
This research looks at how different family structures influence the psychological well-being of children in Bidibidi Refugee Settlement, Zone 2, Yumbe District, Uganda. Refugee children affected by war and displacement in most cases suffer from psychological difficulties due to the alteration in their family structure. This alteration in family structure forces children to take on parenting roles of taking the responsibility of providing for themselves and their siblings. This study used a mixed-methods model to discover the influence of different family structures on children's psychological well-being, including nuclear, single-parent, extended, and child-headed homes. Standardized psychological assessment tools, interviews, and observations were used during the process of data collection to find qualitative and quantitative information. Results of the research indicate that children in nuclear and extended families demonstrate varying levels of psychological stability, and children in single-parent and child-headed households experience higher levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. The research findings also pointed out how key factors parenting style, financial status home and violence within the family structures affect the mental well-being of children living in refugee setting. The study's conclusions highlight the necessity of focused interventions that enhance access to mental health resources in refugee situations, alleviate economic difficulties, and fortify family support networks.