Dual Destinies

This book examines the emotional and behavioral problems experienced by street children living in government and non-government shelters and analyzes how differences in organizational care and support shape their psychological adjustment. Based on empirical research, it explores the influence of health care, physical facilities, schooling, peer support, organizational procedures, and social support on children's emotional well-being and behavior.The study demonstrates that while shelters provide protection, the quality of daily care significantly affects outcomes such as anxiety, withdrawal, aggression, somatic complaints, attention problems, and social adjustment. By comparing government and NGO shelters, the book highlights important differences in institutional environments and their consequences for child development.Placed in the context of present child protection initiatives such as Mission Vatsalya, the book emphasizes that shelter alone is insufficient unless accompanied by humane care, emotional support, health services, and educational continuity. It serves as a useful resource for researchers, psychologists, social workers, students, and policymakers.