Navigating Challenges in Urban Slum Settlements: A Study of Disadvantaged Adolescents Through A Qualitative Lens

Abstract

Adolescents residing in socio-economically disadvantaged urban slum settlements experience multiple developmental challenges shaped by poverty, overcrowding, limited resources, unsafe environments, and unstable interpersonal relationships. The present qualitative study explored adolescents’ experiences and sources of stress, their coping mechanisms, educational and safety barriers, and the factors contributing to school dropout, early employment, and early marriage. It also explored the perspectives of parents and community social workers regarding adolescent needs and intervention feasibility. A purposive sample of 64 participants took part in eight focus group discussions, including three adolescent, two parent, and three social-worker groups. Data were collected through a focus group discussion guide and semi-structured open-ended questions and analysed using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase thematic analysis. The analysis generated five themes: abuse and suppression in daily constraints; consistent adverse living and health conditions; generational resource scarcity for personal growth; disruptive interpersonal relationships; and sexual curiosity and suppression. The findings emphasise the need for context-sensitive, family-inclusive, and developmentally appropriate interventions for adolescents locally.