EXPLORING PSYCHOSOCIAL EXPERIENCES OF STREET GIRLS’ LIFE IN SOME SELECTED KEBELES IN DIRE DAWA CITY, ETHIOPIA

Abstract

This study explores the psychosocial experiences of street girls in selected Kebeles of Dire Dawa City, Ethiopia, employing a qualitative research approach with a phenomenological research design to explore their lived experiences. The study aims to identify the push factors contributing to street life, investigate the psychosocial challenges faced by street girls, analyze their coping mechanisms, and assess the availability and effectiveness of psychosocial support systems. A total of 20 respondents, including 10 street girls and 10 key informants, were selected using convenience and purposive sampling techniques, respectively. Data were collected through unstructured interviews, systematic observations, and an analysis of policy documents related to street children. Thematic analysis was employed to interpret the qualitative data. Findings reveal that street girls experience severe economic hardship, social stigma, and psychological distress due to trauma, abuse, and poverty. Coping strategies often involve reliance on peer networks and substance use. The study highlights the inadequacy of existing psychosocial support systems and underscores the urgent need for comprehensive and accessible interventions. The results further indicate that economic deprivation, family instability, and social factors significantly contribute to the vulnerability of girls to street life, resulting in profound psychosocial consequences. Strengthening psychosocial support mechanisms is critical to enhancing resilience and improving the mental well-being of street girls. The study recommends targeted interventions, including income-generating opportunities for families, structured psychosocial support programs, enhanced coordination among stakeholders, policy amendments, and further research on the root causes and psychosocial implications of street life among girls in Dire Dawa