Perceptions of the roles and responsibilities of caregivers in children's homes

Abstract

This study contributes to existing, but limited research on institutional caregiving of vulnerable children. Institutional caregiving is an organized goal directed activity which occurs within a family-like system that aims to protect vulnerable children and optimize their emotional, psychological and physical developmental needs. The purpose of this study was to understand the perceptions that caregivers who work at children’s homes have regarding their roles and responsibilities and thereby obtain an insight into their day to day experiences while executing their responsibilities. The primary research question that guided this study was: “How caregivers at children’s home perceive their roles and responsibilities?” A qualitative research approach was applied and it was guided by the interpretive paradigm to gain subjective and perceived realities that caregivers have regarding their roles and responsibilities. A case study research designed was used and a total of eighteen caregivers were purposefully selected to participate in the study. A focus group interview, a group collage and semi structured individual interviews served as data collection methods for the study. The study used the roles dimension of the McMaster Model of family functioning which is based on the System’s theory as its theoretical framework. Findings of the study were aligned with literature and revealed that the caregivers perceived their fundamental roles and responsibilities as that of providing food, shelter and a protective environment. Their perceived responsibilities also include catering to the children’s emotional and health related requirements. It was interesting to note that in addition to their perceived roles and responsibilities, caregivers viewed their work environment as a child-focused environment and expressed the need to be acknowledged as professionals, be empowered with more caregiving skills, and be paid in accordance with their contribution. The study recommends that the unique needs and pressures of institutional caregivers be adequately studied and addressed in ways that will in turn facilitate quality caregiving.