Effects of Long-Term Hospitalisation on Social Interaction and Attachment among Abandoned Children with Physical and Intellectual Disabilities

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of long-term hospitalisation on social 
interaction and attachment among abandoned children with physical and intellectual disabilities. 
The study was conducted at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital in Harare. Regardless of these 
problems, an array of abandoned children with physical and intellectual disabilities in Zimbabwe 
find themselves in hospitals for prolonged duration. The study was guided by the objectives of 
examining the impact of prolonged hospitalisation on the development of social interaction skills 
among abandoned children with physical and intellectual disabilities, analysing the effects of long
term hospitalization on attachment formation and emotional bonding between abandoned children 
and their caregivers, and exploring strategies and psychosocial interventions that can enhance 
social interaction and attachment among hospitalised, abandoned children with physical and 
intellectual Disabilities. The purposive sampling procedure was adopted in the study in the 
selection of 12 children with physical and intellectual disabilities and 6 key informants. Key 
informants who include Social Workers, Doctors, Nurses and other health care workers were also 
engaged. Data were also obtained through direct observations and document review of some 
medical records of abandoned children with physical and intellectual disabilities at Sally Mugabe 
Central Hospital. Findings of this study showed that long-term institutional care of abandoned 
children with physical and intellectual disabilities reduces exposure to peer contact and 
communication possibilities, decreases attachment development, and promotes social isolation. As 
a result, children frequently experience low self-esteem, poor social skills, and dependence on care 
givers, all of which last outside of the hospital setting. This study, therefore, recommended 
strengthened consistent and relationship-based caregiving systems, integrating structured play and 
socialisation programmes into hospital routines, and provision of comprehensive psychosocial and 
emotional support services.