Emotional maturity assessment of children living in residential homes in Namibia

ABSTRACT

This study aimed to find out the level of emotional maturity and gender differences among children living in residential homes in Windhoek, Namibia. A sample of 54 participants between the age group of 10 to 19 years was selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. This study utilises a quantitative approach and descriptive design. An emotional maturity scale by Bhargava and Singh consisting of five dimensions was used for data collection. The finding reported that majority of the orphan children had an average emotional maturity and by dimensions, the majority were average in emotional instability, social maladjustment, disintegration, and independence but emotional regression was found to be poor. The level of emotional maturity across gender was found to be statistically insignificant for all dimensions. The study can be used to develop the appropriate strategies for psychological support and wellbeing of orphan children.

KEYWORDS:

• Emotional maturity
• orphaned children
• gender
• Namibia

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Poonam Dhaka

Poonam Dhaka received her Ph.D. in Psychology from MLSU, India. She has more than 24 years’ academic and research experience and presently she is a Senior Lecturer in clinical psychology with the Department of Human Sciences, University of Namibia. Her interests span the area of Mind power techniques, cyberpsychology & behavior, health psychology, mental health disorders, psychological assessment, gender identity, cognitive psychology, parent-child relationships. Developed clinical psychological tools and Mind Power Techniques for Teenagers to increase Intelligence, Creativity and Learning. She has authored and co-authored over 40 research publications in peer-reviewed reputed journals, book chapters and conference proceedings. She is a member of the Psychology Association of Namibia, Computer Society of India and served as a member of the various committee in the National and International events.

Antonia Shitilitha Mukwiilongo

Antonia Shitilitha Mukwiilongo received BA (Honours) degree from University of Namibia in Psychology.