Mental Health Problems among Street Children: The Case of India

Abstract

A number of studies indicate that street children are vulnerable for exposure to poly-victimization, which includes various types of physical abuse, sexual violence, bullying and exposure to violence, neglect, drug abuse. These children may suffer severe mental health outcomes due to chronic exposure to psychosocial distress, specifically anxiety and depression. An analytical review of the literature was undertaken to examine the research studies on the psychological and social impact of the living condition on the street children from both a national and global lens. Research evidence indicates that there is a strong correlation between mental health and overall holistic development of the individual. The paper finally provides a conceptual framework of vulnerabilities and mental health of street children, implications for future research, interventions and public policy.