Background: Orphans in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Nigeria, face increasing challenges due to the HIV/AIDS epidemic, terrorism, and natural disasters, leading to a growing orphan population. In addition to the material hardships experienced by orphans, stigmatization remains a profound issue, exacerbating their medical, social, and psychological well-being. Stigma affects children’s self-esteem, mental health, social relationships, and access to opportunities, making it a critical area of concern for orphaned children in institutional care. This study investigates the impact of stigma on the well-being of children in orphanages in Kaduna, Nigeria, focusing on medical, social, and psychosocial aspects of their lives.

Methodology: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 100 children living in orphanages across Kaduna. Data were collected through interviewer-administered questionnaires designed to capture socio-demographic data, medical conditions, behavioural patterns, stigma levels, and psychosocial status. The study also explored how these children cope with the stigma associated with being orphans.

Results: The findings revealed a significant presence of stigma among the orphan population, with 9% of children reporting being stigmatized by peers. Although 83.3% of respondents indicated positive peer relationships, bullying affected 11.4% of the children. Medical issues were prevalent, with 53.7% of the children underweight and 46.7% not fully immunized. Behavioural disorders such as hyperactivity (27%) and enuresis (22.3%) were also common. Despite these challenges, 89.2% reported good self-esteem, although many employed maladaptive coping mechanisms, with 46.8% adjusting their goals to cope with their circumstances.

Conclusion: The study highlights the pervasive impact of stigma on the well-being of orphans in Kaduna, contributing to psychological distress and health challenges. Addressing the stigma and its effects requires comprehensive intervention strategies that integrate medical, psychosocial, and educational support.

Orphans, Stigma, Well-being, Kaduna, Nigeria

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