Quality of life in a fragile state: a study of orphans and vulnerable children living in child-headed households in Zimbabwe

Abstract

Households headed by children, adolescents and youths are a growing phenomenon across sub- Saharan Africa. This is largely a result of the increasing mortality of economically active adults, coupled with migration and urbanisation, which have all weakened traditional kinship systems. Children and youth living in these households experience myriad challenges arising from the absence of an adult guardian and economically active household member. Several studies have shown that children living in these child- and adolescent-headed households experience extreme poverty and deprivation. Furthermore, Zimbabwe's precarious socio-economic condition could further exacerbate these children's risks and deprivations. The wellbeing and quality of life of orphans living in these child-headed households is not well understood as there are very few studies that provide a holistic perspective on the experiences and quality of life for those in these households. The aim of this study was to assess the quality of life of orphans living in childheaded households in Zimbabwe, and explore the factors that influence their quality of life.