Karamojong Adolescents in Tororo, Uganda: Life Events, Adjustment Problems, and Protective Factors

Natalie D. Eggum-Wilkens, Linlin Zhang, Flora Farago

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

The study focuses on the experiences of 18 Karamojong children aged 10–16 in Uganda, highlighting their challenges, coping mechanisms, social support, and optimism for the future. Recruited through a non-governmental organization in Tororo District, these children shared their experiences of numerous negative life events, with an average of over half of the surveyed events being reported. A positive correlation was found between these negative events and internal emotional struggles, though not with external behavioral problems. Despite facing adversity, often linked to alcohol and poverty, the children employed various coping strategies and largely benefited from emotional or instrumental support. Notably, they maintained hope for their future, frequently associating this optimism with the pursuit of education. This research underscores the importance of understanding the specific challenges faced by Karamojong children to inform targeted interventions and policy efforts aimed at improving their well-being.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)283-296
Number of pages14
JournalJournal of Loss and Trauma
Volume22
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 23 2017

ASJC Scopus Subject Areas

  • Phychiatric Mental Health
  • Social Psychology
  • Social Sciences (miscellaneous)
  • Psychiatry and Mental health

Keywords

  • Adjustment problems
  • Karamojong
  • coping
  • life events
  • resilience

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