Emotional and Behavioural Problems in Adolescent Orphans: A Study on Sociodemographic Factors

Background Despite being raised in well-run institutions, orphans often face neglect and are at heightened risk for various psychological challenges. Objective This study investigates whether there are differences in emotional and behavioural problems based on the sociodemographic characteristics of adolescent orphans. Methods An exploratory study was conducted with 400 adolescent orphans in Kerala. Emotional and behavioural problems were assessed using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), and sociodemographic data were collected by a structured personal data schedule. Data were analysed using independent sample t -tests and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) in SPSS 26. Results Significant differences in emotional and behavioural problems were observed based on gender, religion, type of orphan, duration of institutionalisation, and type of orphanage. Female orphans exhibited higher emotional problems. No significant differences were found with respect to age and domicile. Orphans residing in private orphanages showed lower conduct problems, hyperactivity, and peer-related problems. Double and maternal orphans reported more emotional problems, conduct problems, hyperactivity, and peer problems than paternal orphans. Orphans belonging to the Muslim community exhibited lower behavioural problems and higher prosocial behaviour. Emotional problems were more pronounced among those institutionalised for less than a year. Conclusion The findings underscore the need for tailored psychosocial interventions that consider sociodemographic variations to improve the mental health outcomes of adolescent orphans.