Psycho - Social Problems of Children of Migrated Housemaid: A Sociological Study in Kinniya Divisional Secretariat Division

Abstract

The children of migrated housemaids are facing social and psychological problems due to the absence of mothers at their homes. In this case each child loses the support of their own mother and it affects their wellbeing in the society. The purpose of this research is to bring out the social and psychological problems of these children. This study employed a mixed method. Quantitative data were collected by 111 interviewer administered questionnaires. Fifteen case studies and five key informant interviews were conducted as qualitative data collection tools. Research ethics were strictly followed throughout the research process. Results reveal that the children are facing social and psychological problems due to the migration of mothers as housemaids. 63% of children are being affected by physical and mental harassment. Most of the children are being sexually abused by the guardian or some other unknown person they come across. This affects the education of the child and 23% of children stopped their education in the middle. 31.5% of children are engaged with full time or part time job for their daily survival. This type of situation of abandonment and inadequate care leads them to engage in criminal activities and causes distraction in adolescent age. This leads to stressful life and causes loneliness, anxiety and mental disorder. Continuous vigilance regarding the children of migrant house maids, bring awareness among the society, strengthen the specific laws relevant to the maintenance of present guardian and promote social support mechanism are the recommendations of this study.