QUALITY OF LIFE OF CHILDREN IN CARE INSTITUTIONS IN KINSHASA AND ITS DETERMINANTS

Abstract

The aim of this research was to assess the quality of life of children placed in foster care institutions in Kinshasa, and to identify its socio-demographic determinants. It also aimed to indirectly assess the effectiveness of comprehensive care for children placed in these institutions. Against this backdrop, the McGill Quality of Life Scale was administered to a sample of 210 children placed in five care institutions in Kinshasa. The results of the study showed that the children in care had a good general, psychological, physical, existential and social quality of life. Four socio-demographic variables had a decisive influence on the quality of life of these children. These were gender, length of stay at the center, age and type of deceased parent.

Keywords

• wellbeing
• orphans and vulnerable children
• orphanages
• social placement
• care