Psychosocial Adjustment Among Abused Children in Residential Care

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to propose a conceptual framework on the key determinant of psychosocial adjustments in terms of behavior, social, emotion and mental health among abused children in residential care.
 Methodology – This research is designed as a qualitative study approach. Case study method is used to explore primer data which emphasis on psychosocial adjustments and narrative data from the perspective of children living in residential care. Research participants consist of children living in welfare care in Perlis, Malaysia and the respective staffs.
 Findings – Chronic abuse will leave harmful effects on various aspects of the children’s development. Abuse will also affect one’s emotional wellness and balance which will further impact the psychosocial stability of an individual in adulthood. Most victims will not be able to develop a sense of belonging and necessary social skills which eventually will lead to these individuals not being able to socialize in the real life situations. Therefore the placements of these children in a safe environment so as to ensure better care and protection must be given proper attention. The transition of caregivers from parents to the welfare centre will affect these chindren too. They need time to build trust and relationship so that they can feel comfortable to share their experiences and also emotions. Caregivers in the institutions are the main elements in ensuring the quality and effectiveness of educational programmes of the centres.
 Practical Implications – Rehabilitation programme is needed to balance the children’s needs based on age and ability to give the residents chances to practice skills and also learn to adapt to the outside world.
 Social Implications – The institutions should provide condusive life experiences as they have a large impact to the success of the rehabilitation process. In addition, good quality services in fulfilling the children’s need will assure healthy development of the children and their ability to adapt well to the outside world