Psychosocial Support for Child-Headed Households: The Role of Informal Community Networks

Tafadzwa Mabemba

doi:10.25159/2708-9355/19732

Authors

Tafadzwa Mabemba North-West University https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1631-1594

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2708-9355/19732

Keywords:

person-in-environment practice theory , psychosocial support , informal community networks , child-headed households (CHHs)

Abstract

Children from child-headed households face several challenges, including vulnerability to abuse and lack of necessities, such as food, shelter, and clothing. Support is provided from formal structures such as social services; however, not all can access these services and rely on informal community networks. In this study I explore the psychosocial support provided to child-headed households by informal community networks in a rural community in Hogsback, Eastern Cape, South Africa. I used a qualitative exploratory descriptive study design. The population comprised children aged 10 to 17 years from child-headed households. Purposive sampling was conducted to select participants. Data were collected using in-depth interviews and analysed thematically. The study received ethical approval from a research ethics committee. The study found that informal community social networks played a key role by providing emotional and physical support. The findings suggested that while informal community support is indispensable, there is a pressing need for greater coordination, structured interventions, and integration with formal support systems to enhance the sustainability and comprehensiveness of assistance provided to these households. This study supports the development of psychosocial interventions for vulnerable children by identifying ways to effectively leverage local resources to assist child-headed households.

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