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Understanding the burden of COVID-19 orphanhood and caregiver loss among children and adolescents living in South Africa

Author

Listed:
  • Laurenzi, Christina
  • Hisham, Ramsha
  • Mawoyo, Tatenda
  • Steventon Roberts, Kathryn J.
  • Cluver, Lucie
  • Tomlinson, Mark
  • Sherr, Lorraine

Abstract

While caregiver loss is known to have significant repercussions for the wellbeing and developmental trajectories of children and adolescents, limited evidence has examined the impact of orphanhood due to COVID-19 on children and adolescents. To respond to this gap and support better planning for future crises, we examined the short-term impacts of COVID-19-related orphanhood on children’s and adolescents’ wellbeing through the Orphanhood and Caregiver Loss Among Adolescents and Youth (OCAY) study. No such studies exist globally and this provides a unique insight into this hidden group. We hypothesised that there would be multiple mental health impacts on children experiencing such loss.

Suggested Citation

  • Laurenzi, Christina & Hisham, Ramsha & Mawoyo, Tatenda & Steventon Roberts, Kathryn J. & Cluver, Lucie & Tomlinson, Mark & Sherr, Lorraine, 2025. "Understanding the burden of COVID-19 orphanhood and caregiver loss among children and adolescents living in South Africa," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 178(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:cysrev:v:178:y:2025:i:c:s0190740925003998
    DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2025.108516
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    References listed on IDEAS

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