Exploration of the Challenges Faced by Foster Children in Guruve District: A Case Study of Guruve Rural District · Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Author

Mufuratirwa, Grace

Title

Exploration of the Challenges Faced by Foster Children in Guruve District: A Case Study of Guruve Rural District

Abstract

This study explored the challenges faced by foster children in Zimbabwe and was primarily undertaken in pursuit for improved care for children living in foster care in Guruve District. The case study research design was adopted and is best suited when the information the researcher needs should come directly from the individuals under study. A population comprising of foster children aged eight to eighteen years and a sample of twelve (N=12) participants conveniently selected from the target population was utilised. Interviews were used as the research instruments in the gathering of data and were preferred for their various advantages including the fact that they enabled the researchers to obtain rich and meaningful data viewed through the eyes of the participants. The Thematic Content Analysis Technique (TCAT) was used in analysing the findings. The major findings of the study were that while the foster family was found to be generally able to provide basic needs including food, shelter and education; lack of attachment affected the relationship between the foster child and the parent. Consequently, most foster children were noted to be emotionally affected by the separation from their biological family and general lack of parental attachment. Thus, this produced intense feelings of vulnerability, loneliness, emptiness and a desire for a fulfilling life; while discrimination and lack of freedom have also cast a dark shadow on the psychological health of most foster children. The study further revealed that some foster parents have less time for interaction with foster children. On the other hand, not all foster children experience challenges in foster families as some of them have since accepted their situation and are effectively copying. The study recommended, among other things, that relevant government ministries, departments, non-governmental and community-based organizations should support foster care arrangements through realistic policies and financing

Date

2022

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Challenges

Supervisor

N/A