The Socio-Cultural Dynamics of Children’s Relationships and Mental Health: An Investigation of Street Children in Pakistan.

Start date: March 2021

Submission deadline

• PP1: Passed 2021
• PP2:Passed 2022
• Final submission: Submitted June 2024

Director of Studies: Dr Joseph Adonu

Second supervisor: Dr Ali Tomlin

Summary:

My PhD research aims to investigate the various factors that affect the lives of street children in Pakistan. It comprises three interconnected studies with the overarching objective of understanding the complex reasons behind the existence of street children in the country in relation to their mental health. The first study adopts a qualitative methodology to explore the reasons why children in Pakistan end up working on the streets. This study is unique in its approach as it focuses on the lived experiences of street children through narrative analysis. By analysing their stories, it reveals the societal and cultural pressures that drive children towards street life, whether in search of escape or employment. This study provides valuable insights into the broader societal and cultural dynamics at play.

Building on the insights gained from the first study, the second study uses a quantitative approach to investigate the mental well-being of street children. This study aims to statistically analyse the mental health symptoms of street children, comparing them with those who go to school. The results highlight significant concerns regarding anxiety, depression and trauma among street children, providing a stark quantitative assessment of their mental health challenges. The third study, informed by the findings of the first two studies, employs action research to actively involve street children and relevant stakeholders in a dialogue about their needs. This study aims to co-create a proposal for future intervention, using a qualitative, social constructivist approach to inquiry. The participatory method highlights the importance of including street children as active contributors in research to improve their circumstances.

Overall, my PhD research contributes to theoretical knowledge and practical applications, employing a diverse range of methodologies to examine the issue at hand thoroughly. It not only strengthens the understanding of the relationship between street children and societal structures but also emphasises the role of cultural norms in shaping practices towards street children in Pakistan. Significantly, this research positions street children as active participants in the academic inquiry, a novel approach that marks a first in the field.

Contact: Bushra.Ayub@beds.ac.uk