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Report - College, Internship

The internship report details Mudit Khandelwal's experience at the Government Observation Home in Jaipur, focusing on the role of psychologists in juvenile rehabilitation. It outlines objectives such as understanding children's behavior, conducting mental health assessments, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. The report emphasizes the importance of trauma-informed care and the impact of UNICEF's initiatives on the rehabilitation process for vulnerable children.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
27 views28 pages

Report - College, Internship

The internship report details Mudit Khandelwal's experience at the Government Observation Home in Jaipur, focusing on the role of psychologists in juvenile rehabilitation. It outlines objectives such as understanding children's behavior, conducting mental health assessments, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. The report emphasizes the importance of trauma-informed care and the impact of UNICEF's initiatives on the rehabilitation process for vulnerable children.

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mudit
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INTERNSHIP REPORT

In Partial Fulfillment of the Curriculum Requirement in the Third Semester of


Master Degree in Psychology

Field Area Selected: Rajkiya Samprekshan Graha (Government Observation


Home), Jaipur

Submitted to,
Department of Psychology

Head of Department,
Mrs. Suprithy Paliwal

Submitted by,
Mudit Khandelwal
M.A. Psychology 3rd semester
2460016
TABLE OF CONTENT

TITLES:

Acknowledgment

Executive summary

Introduction

Objectives of Field Work

Methods used and sources of data

Organizational Profile

Work Done by Trainee

Overall Outcome

Suggestions and Feedback

Conclusion

Certificate

Photo Gallery
ACKNOWLEDGMENT

Gratitude is not only one of the greatest virtues but also the foundation of all
others. A moment of thankfulness can significantly shift our perspective and
attitude. It is rare to have an opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate those
who have been instrumental in shaping our journey and contributing to our
success. I am profoundly thankful to S.S. Jain Subodh PG College, Jaipur, for
granting me the opportunity to undertake my internship at Government
Observation Home, Jaipur. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Prof. Suprithy
Paliwal, HOD, Department of Psychology, for imparting the knowledge, values,
determination, and professionalism required to thrive as a Psychology student.
I am especially grateful to Mr. Arpit Sharma (Founder of Mano Matrix
counseling services and mind wellness centre) for their unwavering Support,
guidance, patience, and encouragement, which provided me with clarity,
purpose, and direction throughout this internship, ensuring its success.

Lastly, I wish to express my gratitude to everyone who directly or indirectly


contributed to the successful completion of this internship. Their assistance,
encouragement, and provision of essential resources and information were
vital in making this experience enriching and fulfilling.

Mudit Khandelwal
Master's psychology student
3rd semester
S.S JAIN SUBODH PG COLLEGE, JAIPUR
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The internship report highlights my major work during the 1.5 months of the
internship. This comprehensive report encapsulates the invaluable insights
gained during this enriching experience at the Government Observation Home
(Rajkiya Samprekshan Graha). In this report describes the detail about different
work activities that I carried throughout the internship. I have described the
analysis carried out, projects given, and experience gained and focused on the
achievements as an intern.

This report highlights the key findings and learnings from a 1.5-month
internship at the Government Observation Home for Boys (OHB), Jaipur,
conducted in collaboration with Mano Matrix Wellness and Service Center and
UNICEF. The primary objectives were to understand the behavior of children,
the role of psychologists and social workers in their rehabilitation, and the
impact of juvenile justice programs.

The study underscored the pivotal role of psychologists and social workers in
providing trauma-informed care, conducting therapeutic interventions, and
addressing the social determinants contributing to juvenile offenses.
Techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, narrative
therapy, story telling, and art therapy were observed to foster emotional
healing and resilience.

Additionally, UNICEF’s initiatives in mental health and child welfare were


instrumental in shaping the care provided at OHB. The findings emphasize the
importance of a multidisciplinary approach to juvenile rehabilitation, focusing
on individualized care, vocational training, family mediation, and community
reintegration. This internship provided practical insights into the legal, ethical,
and therapeutic aspects of juvenile justice, reinforcing the need for
collaborative efforts to support vulnerable children and ensure their holistic
development.
INTRODUCTION
Children are often compared to seeds—they thrive and grow well when
provided with the right care, including proper nourishment, a supportive
environment, and guidance. However, not all children are fortunate enough to
receive these essentials, which can lead them to engage in regrettable actions.
Despite their mistakes, many of these children feel remorse and a desire to
change. To support them, various governmental and non-governmental
organizations, such as the Government Observation Home (OHB) and UNICEF,
step in to provide the care, guidance, and opportunities they need to rebuild
their lives and grow in a positive direction.

The United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) is a


global organization established in 1946 to address the urgent needs of children
affected by World War II. Today, it operates in over 190 countries and
territories, working to improve the lives of children and their families through
programs focused on health, education, protection, and social inclusion.
UNICEF is committed to ensuring every child’s right to survival, development,
and a bright future, particularly in underserved and vulnerable communities.
By partnering with governments, NGOs, and communities, UNICEF plays a
pivotal role in creating a safe and nurturing environment where children can
thrive and achieve their full potential.

A Government Observation Home, also known as Rajkiya Samprekshan Graha,


is a state-run facility established under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection
of Children) Act, 2015, to provide temporary care and rehabilitation for
children in conflict with the law. These homes serve as safe spaces for juveniles
during the legal proceedings of their cases, ensuring their rights and well-being
are protected.
The primary aim of these homes is to offer a structured environment where
children receive counseling, education, vocational training, and healthcare.
They are designed to rehabilitate and reintegrate children into society by
addressing the root causes of their behavior, such as poverty, lack of education,
or adverse family circumstances. Multidisciplinary teams, including social
workers, psychologists, and legal professionals, work collaboratively to provide
individualized care and create opportunities for these children to reform and
lead productive lives.
OBJECTIVES OF FIELD WORK

 To learn about children's behavior in Rajkiya Samprekshan Graha


(government observation home for boys).
 To understand the role of psychologists or counselors in multidisciplinary
teams within a Rajkiya Samprekshan Graha.
 To Gain practical experience in assessing and understanding the sufferings
and needs of individuals undergoing trials
 To build rapport and foster trust with children to facilitate comprehensive
mental health assessments.
 To conduct detailed case histories and Mental Status Examinations (MSEs) of
children
 To develop effective communication and counseling skills for working with
clients dealing with psychological issues.
 To acquire knowledge of various therapeutic approaches
 To learn to conduct intake assessments to determine appropriate treatment
plans.
 To gain insights into the impact of Bal Sudhar Kendra on individuals, families,
and communities.
 To learn to collaborate with healthcare professionals to address children's
physical and mental health.
 Understand the importance of cultural competence in providing effective
treatment.
 To develop report writing skills to support clients throughout the justice
process.
 To gain an understanding of the legal and ethical considerations in the field
of juvenile justice.
 To learn to assess and address the social determinants that contribute to
crime in children.
 To develop skills in crisis intervention and relapse prevention.

METHODS USED AND SOURCE OF DATA

During the 1 month of the internship, I have used different methods for
learning and collecting of data. My focus of study was social work in a
Government Observation Home for boys.
Area of study: The universe of study was the Government Observation Home
for boys. For studying children's behavior, Government Observation Home for
Boys, Jaipur was an area of study. Primarily, To understand children's behavior
in the juvenile center, I have collected data of children from the Government
Observation Home for Boys, Jaipur through interviews in which I have taken
their detailed personal assessments and mental status examinations. Secondly,
To collect data about their cases, I have collected data from their reports such
as medical, counseling reports, and FIR.

Sample Size: For studying children’s behavior in juvenile center, the sample size
was 6 people of the Government Observation Home for Boys, Jaipur.

Source of Data: It was first-hand data collection. Regarding children's behavior


in the juvenile center, I have observed and collected information by interacting
with staff and Children of OHB. To understand the role of psychologists and
counselors in helping these children mentally and physically, I had a question-
and-answer session with Arpit Sharma, psychologist.

Technique Used: During field work random sampling technique has been used
for the purpose of study.

Tools Used For Study


Observation: Observation is the active acquisition of information from a
primary source. During the internship, I have observed various techniques
employed to teach, engage, and help children develop daily life skills
effectively.

Interview Schedule: An interview schedule is a structured plan for the


interviewer, consisting of pre-researched questions and answers, designed to
interview a candidate. In my study of OHB settings, I engaged with staff
members, posing inquiries about the operations of the OHB, the trial
processes, the various types of Acts, laws, psychotherapeutic techniques, and
other related programs. For studying history, the reason for starting use,
satisfaction level, problems faced and behavioral patterns of children, I have
collected data from 6 Children in OHB, Jaipur through interviews. The interview
questions were about history, Family details, reason, problems faced, the
behavioral patterns of patients, consequences, and present condition. To
understand them more, I have collected data from the already existing reports
such as medical reports, counseling report, and FIR. The interview questions
were about developmental history, health history, social history, family history,
circumstances leading to the offense, role in the crime, Emotional and
behavioral response, situational factors, and mental health at the time of
offense. To understand the role of psychologists in helping children I had a
question-and-answer session with a psychologist. The questions were about
the role of psychology in rehabilitation, Techniques, skills, tips to follow in
counseling, difficulties facing during counseling and tips to control emotions
during counseling.

Data Analysis: I have examined the data gathered from the interview, and
observation, utilizing tables and diagrams. This analysis has allowed me to gain
insights about the mental and physical health of the children in the
government observation home.

ORGANIZATIONAL PROFILE
UNICEF
The United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) is a
globally recognized organization established on December 11, 1946, by the
United Nations General Assembly. Initially formed to provide emergency food,
clothing, and healthcare to children affected by World War II, UNICEF has since
evolved into a leading agency dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being
of children worldwide.
Mission and Vision:
UNICEF's mission is to advocate for the protection of children's rights, help
meet their basic needs, and expand opportunities for children to reach their
full potential. It operates on the principle that every child, regardless of race,
religion, nationality, or economic background, deserves to grow up in a safe,
healthy, and supportive environment.
Key Areas of Focus:
1. Child Health and Nutrition: Reducing child mortality rates and
combating malnutrition through immunization programs, clean water
initiatives, and improved healthcare services.
2. Education: Ensuring that every child, especially girls and children in
marginalized communities, has access to quality education.
3. Child Protection: Safeguarding children from abuse, exploitation, and
violence, and supporting rehabilitation for those affected by conflicts or
natural disasters.
4. Gender Equality: Promoting gender equity and empowering girls to
break barriers and realize their potential.
5. Emergency Response: Delivering humanitarian aid and support to
children and families during crises, such as wars, natural disasters, or
pandemics.
6. Advocacy for Children's Rights: Influencing policies and laws to uphold
and promote the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Global Reach:
 UNICEF operates in 190+ countries and territories, working in
partnership with governments, non-governmental organizations, and
local communities to implement programs tailored to the specific needs
of children in different regions.
 Its presence in both developed and developing nations ensures a
balanced approach to addressing systemic challenges like poverty,
inequality, and climate change.
Funding and Operations:
 UNICEF is funded entirely through voluntary contributions from
governments, private donors, and corporate partnerships.
 It operates on a non-profit model, with the majority of its resources
directly allocated to programs that benefit children and communities.
Achievements and Legacy:
 Over the decades, UNICEF has been instrumental in eradicating diseases
like polio, reducing global child mortality rates, and advocating for access
to education for millions of children.
 It was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1965 for its outstanding
humanitarian efforts.
Commitment to the Future:
UNICEF is committed to creating a world where every child can thrive, focusing
on sustainability, innovation, and partnerships to address emerging global
challenges. Its efforts align with the United Nations Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs) to ensure a brighter, equitable future for all children.

WORK DONE BY TRAINEE

As part of my internship, I visited OHB, Jaipur between the 26th of November to


31st of December 2024 and participated in different activities and programs
conducted in OHB, Jaipur. I found myself rather lucky to have the chance to
work in the environment that Mano Matrix Wellness and Service Center and
UNICEF provided. I was introduced to some of the new terms, aspects, and
experiences in social work in the field of helping children in the juvenile center.

Day 1- 26/11/2024: First Visit, Session & orientation


On the first day of our visit, we reached OHB. We got a warm welcoming there.
We were initially apprehensive due to the stories we had heard about how the
Bal Sudhar Kendra operates and its past interactions with caretakers and
counselors. However, as soon as we stepped inside and met the children, all
our fears vanished. Their warm and open-hearted welcome, coupled with the
hope we saw in their eyes for a better future, completely transformed our
perspective. Our supervisor, Arpit Sharma introduced us to the children, and
we, in turn, introduced ourselves to them. He visited us the whole Government
Samprekshan Graha, and gave knowledge about acts such as
Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, POCSO and many
more. After the session, I got a clear picture of the OHB. The misconception
that I had related to Bal Sudhar Kendra was completely changed.

Day 2- 27/11/2024: Knowing them


On the second day, With approximately 70 children in the OHB, we organized
them into groups based on their place of residence to manage them effectively.
Each team member then took their assigned group to a designated area within
the OHB, formed a circle, and began building rapport with the children by
utilizing various counseling techniques, including compassion, active listening,
empathy, reflection, encouragement, paraphrasing, summarizing, and
observation skills, among others.

Day 3- 28/11/2024: Establishing rapport


On the third day of our internship, we began conducting detailed case histories
and performing comprehensive Mental Status Examinations (MSEs) for
children. This involved gathering extensive information about their medical,
psychological, and social backgrounds, as well as observing their behavior,
emotional state, cognitive functioning, and interpersonal interactions. These
assessments were critical in identifying specific challenges, formulating
accurate diagnoses, and developing tailored intervention plans to support the
children's mental health and overall well-being.

Day 4- 29/11/2024: Conducting Case Histories and MSEs


On the fourth day of the internship, I continued working on case histories, as
several remained incomplete due to the large number of children under my
care. Managing this workload required meticulous attention to detail and
prioritization to ensure each child's background and needs were thoroughly
documented.

Day 5- 02/12/2024: Conducting Case Histories and MSEs


Continuing from the previous day, I focused on completing the case histories
that remained unfinished due to the high number of children requiring
assessments. Each session involved building rapport with the children, carefully
documenting their psychological, social, and medical details, and ensuring a
comfortable environment for open communication. This day emphasized the
importance of patience and consistency in handling multiple cases.

Day 6- 03/12/2024: Conducting Case Histories and MSEs


On the sixth day, I revisited a few incomplete case histories to gather additional
details that were missed earlier. I also started organizing the information
systematically to streamline the data for better analysis. Alongside, I supported
other team members by sharing insights and techniques I had learned during
my assessments.

Day 7- 04/12/2024: Focusing particularly on MSE


The seventh day was dedicated to refining the Mental Status Examinations
(MSEs) I had conducted earlier, ensuring accuracy in observations and
interpretations. I also worked closely with my supervisor to discuss cases that
required additional attention, which helped me enhance my understanding of
behavioral patterns and psychological conditions

Day 8- 06/12/2024: Case Histories and MSEs


By the eighth day, I had completed most of the case histories and MSEs. I began
reviewing my documentation to identify gaps and added further details where
necessary. This process gave me deeper insights into the complexities of each
case, as I correlated the case history data with the mental health observations.

Day 9- 9/12/2024: Discussion with team members


On the eighth day, I participated in discussions with the team to finalize
intervention strategies based on the completed case histories and MSEs. These
discussions helped me understand how psychological assessments translate
into actionable care plans, broadening my perspective on mental health
intervention.

Day 10-10/12/2024: Mapping Mental Health Needs


As I continued documenting case histories, I began focusing on identifying key
behavioral and emotional patterns that could guide future interventions. This
day required integrating observations with theoretical knowledge to form a
clear picture of the children’s mental health needs.

Day 11-11/12/2024: Summing up details


By the eleventh day, I had developed a rhythm for managing multiple case
histories and MSEs. I started providing preliminary summaries of my findings to
supervisors, which allowed me to receive constructive feedback and improve
my assessment techniques.

Day 12-12/12/2024: Attended an online meeting


On the twelfth day, our supervisor conducted a video conference call to review
our progress. During the meeting, it became evident that several interns had
not yet completed their case histories and Mental Status Examinations (MSEs).
This delay was largely attributed to limited prior experience in conducting
comprehensive individual assessments, which demanded more time and
attention to detail than expected. Acknowledging these challenges, our
supervisor decided to extend the deadline, giving us additional time to
complete our reports with accuracy and thoroughness.

Day 13- 13/12/2024: Physical activity session


On the thirteenth day, a physical activity session was organized for the children
at the Bal Sudhar Kendra. Professional physical trainers were invited to guide
the children on maintaining physical health, teach them basic exercises, and
lead them through various cardio activities and other fitness routines. During
the session, our role as interns was to observe the children closely, ensuring
that they behaved appropriately and maintained discipline throughout the
activities.

Day 14- 16/12/2024: Case Histories and MSEs


As discussed earlier during the video conference, interns who had not yet
completed their case histories and MSEs were given additional time to finalize
their work. On the fourteenth day, I assisted my fellow interns in gathering the
necessary data and compiling it into their reports. This included helping them
structure the information effectively and ensuring their documentation was
comprehensive and accurate.

Day 15- 17/12/2024: Supporting my fellow interns


On the fifteenth day, I continued supporting my fellow interns in completing
their case histories and MSEs. I helped them collect additional data, organize
their findings, and refine their reports to ensure clarity and accuracy. This
collaborative effort allowed us to make significant progress toward finalizing
the pending tasks.

Day 16- 18/12/2024: Attended an online meeting


On the sixteenth day, our supervisor conducted another video conference call,
not only to review our progress but also to share updates. He informed us that
UNICEF was pleased with our efforts so far. Additionally, he announced that
since there is no established tool to assist the children at the Bal Sudhar
Kendra, our tool, Katha, had been adopted as one of the primary methods.
From now on, we would utilize Katha, which consists of 21 unique stories
designed to teach the children 21 new skills through storytelling, making it
easier for them to connect and learn.
During the session, our supervisor provided us with a detailed plan on how to
implement this exercise. Each session would have a coordinator responsible for
ensuring all children behaved appropriately, remained seated in their groups,
and did not wander around. A designated speaker would deliver a consistent
message each day before breaking the larger group into smaller circles. For
these smaller groups, we were paired with fellow interns, where one would
narrate the story while the other ensured the children remained attentive and
engaged. The latter would also ask questions related to the story to reinforce
understanding and participation.
Day 17- 19/12/2024: Beginning of Katha exercise
On the seventeenth day, we began implementing the Katha exercise as
instructed by our supervisor. The session proceeded smoothly, with both the
coordinator and speaker fulfilling their roles effectively. For the first day of this
exercise, we shared a story titled The Fire Within, which focused on anger
management. The story revolved around Ishan, a 14-year-old known for his
quick temper. Through storytelling, we introduced the children to key
techniques for managing anger, such as recognizing triggers, taking a pause
before reacting, channeling anger in positive ways, and expressing feelings
calmly. The session aimed to make these concepts relatable and actionable for
the children.

Day 18- 20/12/2024: Physical activity session


On the eighteenth day, the focus shifted to promoting physical fitness among
the children at the Bal Sudhar Kendra. A special session was conducted where
professional trainers engaged the children in a variety of exercises, from basic
warm-ups to cardio routines, aimed at improving their overall health. The
trainers also emphasized the benefits of staying active and maintaining a
healthy lifestyle. As interns, we played a supportive role by monitoring the
children’s participation, ensuring they adhered to the instructions, and
fostering an environment of enthusiasm and discipline throughout the session.

Day 19- 23/12/2024: 2nd day of Katha exercise


On the second day of implementing the Katha exercise, we introduced a new
story titled The Blanket of Compassion, focusing on the skill of empathy and
compassion. The story revolved around Lakhan, a 14-year-old boy living in the
deserts of Jaisalmer, who initially struggled to understand the importance of
compassion. When a new boy, Sahil, joined his school, Lakhan and his friends
teased him due to his timid nature and different background. However, through
a series of events—including Sahil's resilience and Lakhan’s eventual realization
of the power of kindness—Lakhan learned to value empathy and selflessness.
The story illustrated key lessons, such as recognizing the struggles of others,
supporting those in need, and sharing even when resources are scarce. During
the session, we narrated the story to the children, encouraging them to reflect
on its messages. The session also included discussions and questions to help
the children connect the story to their own lives, fostering a deeper
understanding of empathy and its impact.
Day 20- 24/12/2024: 3rd day of Katha exercise
On the third day of implementing the Katha exercise, we introduced a new
story titled The Silent Cry of the Desert, focusing on drug and substance abuse
awareness. The story followed the journey of Sameer, a 17-year-old boy from a
humble background in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. Despite his aspirations of
becoming a teacher and his dedication to studies, the weight of his family's
financial struggles made him vulnerable.
Sameer’s life took a dark turn when he encountered a group of boys who
offered him a cigarette to "relieve his stress." Initially hesitant, Sameer
eventually gave in to the temptation, finding a fleeting sense of relief. However,
this decision led him down a slippery slope into substance abuse. As his
dependency grew, his academic performance suffered, and his dreams began
to crumble. The turning point came when his mother discovered evidence of
his addiction, leaving her heartbroken and prompting Sameer to confront the
consequences of his choices.
Through this story, we aimed to shed light on the dangers of substance abuse
and the importance of resilience, self-awareness, and seeking help in difficult
times. The session encouraged the children to reflect on the choices they make
and to discuss healthier ways to cope with stress and challenges in life.
Day 21- 26/12/2024: 4th day of Katha exercise
On the fourth day of implementing the Katha exercise, we introduced a new
story titled The Bridge Over Thorns, focusing on teaching the children the
importance of conflict resolution skills. The story followed the journey of two
classmates, Ravi and Arjun, who came from vastly different backgrounds—Ravi
being resourceful but temperamental, and Arjun being wealthy and arrogant.
Their constant rivalry escalated during a school science fair, where both
competed to create a water filtration model. However, a storm destroyed their
projects, leaving them no choice but to work together to rebuild a single
model.
Initially, their collaboration was fraught with disagreements and wasted time,
but a turning point came when Ravi’s mother shared a story about two
stubborn goats who fell into a river because neither was willing to compromise.
This inspired Ravi to take the first step toward resolving their conflict by
suggesting they divide tasks based on their individual strengths. Though
hesitant, Arjun agreed. Ravi focused on the technical design while Arjun
worked on the presentation, and over time, their teamwork improved. They
began to appreciate each other’s unique perspectives and abilities, turning
their rivalry into mutual respect and understanding.
The children learned from the story that resolving conflicts is about finding
common ground and valuing teamwork rather than trying to win arguments. By
the end, Ravi and Arjun not only won the competition but also built a
friendship that demonstrated the power of empathy, communication, and
cooperation.
Day 22- 27/12/2024: 5th day of Katha exercise
On the fifth day of the Katha exercise, a new story, "The Voice That Bridged
Silence," was introduced to teach children in the Bal Sudhar Kendra about the
importance of communication skills. The story revolves around Veer, a shy 15-
year-old boy from Rajasthan's Barmer village, who struggles with public
speaking despite being talented and resourceful. Veer’s journey to overcoming
his fear of communication begins when his English teacher encourages him to
participate in a competition addressing sustainable farming challenges.
Through practice, guidance, and perseverance, Veer develops the confidence to
express himself and present his innovative idea, ultimately inspiring his
community.
The children in the Bal Sudhar Kendra learned a vital lesson from this story:
effective communication is a powerful tool for overcoming challenges, building
connections, and driving change. It emphasized that expressing oneself with
clarity and confidence can bridge gaps, resolve issues, and inspire collective
growth. The story also instilled the value of practice, determination, and the
courage to face one’s fears.
Day 23- 30/12/2024: 6th day of Katha exercise
On the sixth day of implementing the Katha exercise in the Bal Sudhar Kendra,
we introduced a story titled "The Crossroads of Life" to emphasize the
importance of life skills, such as decision-making and problem-solving. This
captivating narrative revolves around Aman, a 16-year-old boy from a modest
family in Pushkar, Rajasthan. Aman faces a difficult decision when his family
struggles financially: should he abandon his studies to support his family or
participate in a pottery competition that offers a chance to win prize money?
The story highlights Aman's meticulous decision-making process. We see him
weigh the pros and cons of his options, seek advice, and work diligently toward
a solution. Ultimately, Aman chooses to participate in the competition while
continuing his studies. His creative effort and perseverance not only win him
the contest but also help his family and secure his future.
For the children in the Bal Sudhar Kendra, this story serves as a powerful
lesson. It teaches them the value of analyzing choices, staying determined, and
thinking about the long-term impacts of their actions. Through Aman's journey,
they learn that challenges are inevitable, but a proactive approach and
resilience can turn difficulties into opportunities. The story inspires them to
make thoughtful decisions, even under pressure and reminds them that hard
work and determination can lead to transformative outcomes.

Day 24-31/12/2024: Concluded with a fitness session


As it was the final day of our internship, we once again conducted a physical
exercise session for the children at the Bal Sudhar Kendra. The focus was on
promoting physical fitness and overall well-being. A special session was
organized, during which professional trainers engaged the children in a variety
of exercises, including basic warm-ups and cardio routines, designed to
enhance their health and stamina. The trainers highlighted the importance of
staying active and adopting a healthy lifestyle. The session was made even
more special with the visit of the State Head of UNICEF, who observed and
appreciated the work being done.

OVERALL OBSERVATION

OBSERVATION AND LEARNING OUTCOME ABOUT ORGANIZATION AND ITS


PROGRAMMES:
UNICEF, a globally renowned institution operating under the UN Charter, is
dedicated to improving the welfare of children across Rajasthan, India, and the
world. Known for its impactful interventions, UNICEF has helped millions of
children through various programs, including those focused on mental health
and psychosocial support. As of 2023, UNICEF has reached over 9.3 million
children globally with life-saving interventions, many of which address the
mental health challenges faced by vulnerable populations.
In India, UNICEF’s mental health initiatives emphasize creating safe spaces,
providing trauma-informed care, and integrating mental health services into
child protection and education systems. During my internship at the Bal Sudhar
Kendra (a government observation home for boys), I witnessed UNICEF's
commitment to fostering mental well-being. Their programs focused on helping
children process emotions, develop coping skills, and build resilience. This
practical experience gave me valuable insights into how UNICEF addresses the
complex mental health needs of children, ensuring they receive the care and
support they deserve.

OBSERVATION AND LEARNING OUTCOME FROM CHILDREN INTERVIEWS:


1. Most individuals hold hope in themselves, their family members, the justice
system, and their lawyers to help them leave the Bal Sudhar Kendra.
2. Most of the individual need mental health support
3. All the individuals interviewed want to overcome the current situation.
4. The majority have limited education and come from economically and
socially disadvantaged backgrounds
5. Many individuals have deeply emotional and heart-wrenching stories that
reveal the hardships they have endured.
6. Most of them were open with me, sharing their experiences and
circumstances in detail, which led to the offenses they are accused of.
7. The majority of the cases they face are related to POCSO, the SC and ST
(Prevention of Atrocities) Act, and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Section 101,
and many more.
OBSERVATION AND LEARNING OUTCOME FROM SESSION WITH
PSYCHOLOGIST
From the session by Mr. Arpit Sharma (Psychologist) shared several new
information in social work. He has discussed role of psychology in social work,
short-term psychology-related courses for social workers. He elaborated on
various acts, including the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children)
Act, 2015, the POCSO Act, and several others.

OBSERVATION AND LEARNING OUTCOME OF SOCIAL WORK IN GOVERNMENT


OBSERVATION HOME
What social workers can do?
Psychologists play an essential role in supporting the children residing in Bal
Sudhar Kendras or government observation homes. Their interventions focus
on promoting the mental, emotional, and social well-being of these children,
helping them heal and reintegrate into society. Social workers often develop
individualized rehabilitation plans, facilitate vocational training, and work to
rebuild strained family relationships. They act as mediators between the
children and their families while coordinating with legal authorities, NGOs, and
government agencies to ensure the children’s rights and needs are met.
Additionally, they engage in community awareness programs to reduce stigma
and prepare for the children’s reintegration into society.
Psychologists, on the other hand, focus on assessing mental health issues and
providing therapeutic interventions. They conduct psychological evaluations to
identify conditions like PTSD, anxiety, or depression and address developmental
or behavioral challenges. Through trauma-informed care and therapies such as
CBT, play therapy, and art therapy, psychologists help children process their
emotions and experiences. They also organize group therapy sessions to foster
peer support and teach essential skills like communication and conflict
resolution. Furthermore, psychologists equip children with coping mechanisms
to manage stress and anger, promote self-esteem, and address crises through
immediate psychological support. Together, social workers and psychologists
create a nurturing environment that prioritizes the children’s growth,
resilience, and successful reintegration into society.

Qualities needed for social worker in this field


1. Empathy and Compassion:
o The ability to genuinely understand and share the feelings of the
children is crucial.
o A compassionate approach builds trust and fosters a safe space for
children to open up.
2. Patience and Resilience:
o Working with children from difficult backgrounds can be
emotionally taxing.
o Patience is essential, as progress is often slow and challenging.
3. Strong Communication Skills:
o Clear and effective communication is vital to understanding the
child’s needs and explaining concepts to them.
o Active listening skills ensure that children feel heard and validated.
4. Cultural Sensitivity:
o Being aware of and respectful toward the diverse cultural and
social backgrounds of the children is essential for building rapport.
5. Problem-Solving Abilities:
o The ability to assess situations, think critically, and devise creative
solutions is vital when addressing the unique needs of each child.
6. Adaptability:
o Every child’s case is different, requiring flexibility in approach and
methods.
o Professionals must adapt to unpredictable situations and changing
environments.
7. Strong Ethical Standards:
o A commitment to confidentiality, integrity, and respect for the
child’s rights is paramount.
o Professionals must maintain professional boundaries and uphold
ethical guidelines at all times.
8. Knowledge and Expertise:
o A solid understanding of child psychology, trauma, developmental
needs, and relevant legal frameworks (e.g., Juvenile Justice Act,
POCSO) is necessary.
o Training in therapeutic techniques and crisis intervention is a
significant asset.
9. Teamwork and Collaboration:
o The ability to work well with other professionals, including legal
authorities, NGOs, and caregivers, is critical for holistic care.
10. Emotional Strength:
 The work often involves dealing with distressing stories and challenging
situations, so emotional strength and the ability to manage one’s own
mental health are essential.
11. Commitment to Advocacy:
 A genuine passion for child welfare and a commitment to advocating for
their rights and better opportunities are fundamental to making a lasting
impact.
SUGGESTIONS AND FEEDBACK

1. There is a need for more professional psychologists in the Government


Observation Home, as currently, only two psychologists are available to cater to
the needs of approximately 100 children and youth.

2. During my observation, I realized that while we, as interns, were giving our
best efforts, there is a need to go beyond 100%—particularly during
storytelling sessions. We must focus on making the stories more engaging and
interactive to truly capture the children’s attention and encourage their active
participation.

3. In the government observation home, I observed a significant lack of basic


educational resources, such as books, which are essential for children who wish
to continue their studies. Additionally, the shortage of teaching staff further
hinders their ability to access quality education. Addressing these gaps is
crucial to supporting the educational aspirations and overall development of
these children.
CONCLUSION
My internship experience at the Government Observation Home has been
transformative and enlightening, providing me with invaluable insights into the
complex realm of juvenile justice system. This experience has been both
enriching and eye-opening. Engaging with the individuals here, I have had the
privilege of listening to their stories—each filled with resilience and struggle.
These interactions have offered me profound insights into diverse perspectives
on life, highlighting the strength of the human spirit even in challenging
circumstances.

This journey has been immensely fulfilling as it allows me to contribute


meaningfully while learning valuable lessons about empathy, patience, and the
complexity of human behavior. I am grateful for the opportunity to grow
personally and professionally in this role. Each day at the observation home
reinforces my passion for psychology and my commitment to making a
difference in the lives of those I meet.
CERTIFICATE
PHOTO GALLERY

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