Understanding Socio Economic Situation of Vulnerable Children in Mizan town, South Western Ethiopia

Abstract

The main aim of this study was to understand the socioeconomic situation of vulnerable children in Mizan town, South Western Ethiopia with the objectives of assessing the socioeconomic conditions, identifying major problems that vulnerable children are facing, and pointing out the major coping strategies that these vulnerable children utilize. The living condition of these vulnerable children has been assessed qualitatively by using data collection methods from qualitative research design. 8 in depth interviews, 3 key informant interviews, 2 focus group discussions, observations and case studies were used to collect data. The researcher used narrative type of analysis and the data analyzed as well as presented thematically. The study found that majority of vulnerable children live in impoverished living conditions which expose them to various social, economic, health, and psychological problems. Vulnerable children face problems originated from their socioeconomic situation. The study revealed that socioeconomically disadvantaged children are vulnerable to problems such as food shortage, lack of basic needs, lack of access to education and health services, poor attendance, low academic performance, school dropout, child labor exploitation, child trafficking, sexual abuse, physical harm, social exclusion and discrimination. These vulnerable children found getting very low support and aid from governmental and non-governmental organizations to reduce and alleviate the problems. Majority of the children deny the problem that they are facing and choose living in stressful living condition rather than seeking help to find solution to cope up. On the other hand, some children choose to report their cases to responsible bodies and found seeking help from their neighbor, religious organization, responsible government bodies and other aid and support providing organization to cope up with the problems they are facing. Therefore, providing aid and support for socioeconomically vulnerable children and family to strengthen their socioeconomic capacity, giving special attention to children who are living with HIV and taking measurement to cases of child labor abuse and trafficking recommended based on the finding of the study.