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Attachment Styles and Mental Health Among Orphans of Registered Orphanages in Benue State, Nigeria

Phoebe Ibee Atile, Elvis Oblu Ihaji Ph.D, Kwasedoo Martha Ngbea Ph.D

Abstract

The mental health of orphans is critical for their positive growth, recovery from grief and proper attachment. Many orphans, mostly those residing in orphanage homes are at high risk for poor mental health. Orphans in Benue State suffer from multiple psychological factors including poor attachment which has affected their quality of life. Although, how this menace affects their mental health is yet to be known especially in local communities in Benue State. Therefore, this study investigated attachment styles and mental health among orphans of registered orphanages in Benue State. In this cross-sectional survey, the participants were 205 orphans of registered orphanages in Benue state. Their ages ranged from 11-21years with a mean age of 16.149 years (SD=3.146). Among them, 125 (61%) were males and 80 (39%) were females. Proportionate sampling technique was used. The Attachment Styles Questionnaire, and the Positive Mental Health Scale were used for data collection. Regression was used for data analysis. Results indicated that there was a significant positive influence of secured attachment on mental health among orphans. Findings also indicated that there was a significant negative influence of fearful attachment on mental health among orphans. Findings indicated that there was a significant positive influence of preoccupied attachment on mental health among orphans. Findings also indicated that there was a significant negative influence of dismissive attachment on mental health among orphans. It was recommended that clinical psychologists should design and implement attachment-based interventions in orphanage settings. They should design and implement evidence-based programmes that foster secure attachment styles among orphans, such as attachment-based therapy, mentorship, or caregiver training for orphans and care-staff. Key Words: Attachment Styles, Mental health, Orphans, Benue State

Keywords

Attachment StylesMental healthOrphansBenue State

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