A parenting intervention model to support the reintegration of formerly institutionalized children in Bindura.
- Author
- Alifandika, Fitzgerald G.
- Title
- A parenting intervention model to support the reintegration of formerly institutionalized children in Bindura.
- Abstract
-
The study looked at the reintegration of formerly institutionalized children in Bindura with the aim of developing a parenting intervention model to facilitate the reintegration process. The objectives of the study were to explore the post living experiences of formerly institutionalized children in Bindura, to examine the positive parenting practices available to formerly institutionalized children in Bindura and to suggest a model of positive parenting to support the reintegration of formerly institutionalized children in Bindura. The study was qualitative in nature and adopted a case study research design to deeply explore reintegration experiences. A purposive sampling technique was utilized to choose a total of 30 participants, comprising of 13 formerly institutionalized children, 13 caregivers, and 4 social workers. Data was gathered through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions using in-depth interview guides and focus group discussion guides. The study utilized the ecological systems theory as the theoretical framework of the study. The study revealed that the post-living experiences of formerly institutionalized children were mostly characterized by challenges such as behavioral problems, emotional struggles, and lack of support systems. Children were referred to as stubborn, aggressive, emotionally disconnected, anxious, and lacking in self-esteem. The families also had financial challenges and did not have any psychosocial or community support networks. The study also found that caregivers used more traditional parenting methods than modern parenting practices that can work better. A number of children felt disengaged from their caregivers due to limited emotional connection and child participation. The study also highlighted barriers that make it difficult to practice positive parenting such as limited knowledge, financial restraints, and cultural views. The study found that parenting that is participatory and emotionally supportive is critical for successful reintegration. Reintegration is more effective when children are not only passive recipients of care but active participants in decisions affecting their lives. The findings underline the importance of acknowledging the lived experiences of children and developing situations that promote emotional safety and connection. Recommendations were made to policymakers, communities, and social work practitioners to develop parenting interventions that focus on child participation, emotional attachment, and multisectoral support networks. Thus the study advocates for culturally sensitive and child-centered reintegration measures to support the holistic development and well-being of formerly institutionalized children.
- Date
- June 2025
- Publisher
- BUSE
- Keywords
- Institutionalized Children
- Parenting Intervention Model
- Supervisor
- Ms. E. Chigondo
- Item sets
- Department of Social Work
