Assessing the social well-being of children in Durban left behind by parents working outside the borders of South Africa

Abstract

In recent times, South Africa has seen an increase in temporary migration of working mothers and fathers compared to previous years leaving their children behind regardless of age. Children are left in not so familiar environment to learn to cope without their parents. Young and middle-aged males and females are away from homes for periods from 6 months to 12 months or even more before their first home visit from seeking greener pastures and financial stability. The absence of parents has led to children encountering challenges that range from schoolwork, poor social adjustment, short-lived happiness, signs of loneliness even when amongst fellow children. Furthermore, children tend to assume adult responsibilities, thus protecting and defending younger siblings. Children left behind by migrating parents live in difficult conditions and are subjected to different challenges such as social instability, low education performance, psychological effects. This study aimed to assess the social well-being of children left behind by South African parents working outside the country. A qualitative exploratory study was undertaken using a non-probability sampling technique known as judgemental sampling. The target population for this study was all families that are taking care of children who have been left behind by parents seeking greener pastures outside the country. The sample size for this study was six families in the KwaZulu Natal province specifically in the Durban area. Data were analysed using NVIVO. The findings of this study showed that children face loneliness due to the absence of their parents. Due to the lack of parental care, they feel helpless because they cannot do as they wish. No parental support when it comes to school activities. The limitation of this study was that the sample size was small as such the findings cannot be applied beyond the current scope. Future research should be conducted across South Africa using a large sample size. Also, a comparative study should be undertaken to broaden the understanding of the problem.