Mental Health and Wellbeing

As part of CLARISSA’s qualitative, thematic research agenda, Geographic Information System (GIS) journey mapping and ethnographic observation was conducted to gain insights into the daily lives, experiences, journeys, and feelings of children involved in the Adult Entertainment Sector (AES). Twenty children documented their daily activities using a mobile app, with support and accompaniment from CLARISSA researchers. Subsequently, a collaborative analysis was conducted with participants and the CLARISSA research team, culminating in the formation of a number of GIS-based Action Research Groups (ARGs) to work on predominant issues or themes.

The formation of Nepal ARG 5 was prompted by recurring issues around children’s mental health and overall wellbeing that emerged through the research. The children involved are exposed to various forms of exploitation, abuse, trauma, and violence, all of which have a profound and adverse impact on their mental health. As such, this group was formed to work on the theme/issue ‘mental health and wellbeing’.