Developmental Experiences of OVC in Child-Headed Households and the Impact on Cognition and Learning

摘要: In this phenomenological descriptive case study the researchers investigated ecological encounters of orphaned and vulnerable Children (OVC) in child-headed households (CHHs) impact on cognition learning. The qualitative enquiry is based Bronfenbrenner’s systems theory. triangulated data was collected through participant observations, open-ended questionnaires, interviews focus group discussions. purposefully selected participants comprised 20 double orphans children, four headmasters, eight teachers, one education officer social welfare officer, comprising a total sample 34. Tesch’s model analysis used to findings into themes, each differentiating sub-categories. revealed most OVC suffer from loneliness, feelings inferiority, stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, lack concentration class heightened negativity that militates against effective assimilation accommodation learning materials within their environment. situation exacerbated by poverty, need deprivation overwhelming household parenting responsibilities. As such, children’s voiced responses expressed great despondence. Orphanhood found be psychological deterrent local community, administrators, policy makers, rights advocates together with representatives map out life-lines promote cognitive residing CHHs. DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014.v5n3p312