Research on Mental Health Condition of Underprivileged Children living in the Streets of Dhaka

Ekmattra Society, funded by very50 and supported by Toyota Foundation, is conducting significant research on the mental health condition of underprivileged children in Dhaka City. The research initiative, which began in 2023, has achieved tremendous progress. At the start of the research, a thorough literature review was undertaken, leading to the development of research and guidelines and a knowledge base on mental health disorders and trauma.

Following the literature review, a dedicated research team was formed, and a set of questions was developed to probe deep into the mental conditions and trauma suffered by these children. After identifying respondents and finalizing the interview tool, Research Assistants received extensive training on interview techniques along with methods to identify the underlying trauma suffered by the respondents.

Ensuring diversity, Research Assistants were assigned to five distinct areas of Dhaka, taking into account gender, age, and living conditions. An orientation Program took place in February at the DC office in Dhaka. This session aimed to familiarize stakeholders with the study methodology, stimulate interactions between stakeholders, partners, respondents, and the research team, also introduce Ekmattra Society staff involved in the project.

Currently, the research is in the process of analyzing and sorting the data collected. The primary objective of this research project is to identify the underlying causes of trauma among children living on the streets of Dhaka. The data will enable the research team to build a Training of Trainers (ToT) manual, which will equip caregivers with the information and skills required to understand and support these vulnerable children and address their mental health needs effectively.