Evaluation of the Psychological Adjustment of Bihari Adults about Their Education Facilities in Mirpur Camps of Dhaka City in Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: The Bihari community in Bangladesh, displaced during the 1971 Liberation War, continues to live in socio-economically marginalized conditions, particularly in the Mirpur camps in Dhaka. Despite decades of settlement, many remain stateless and face restricted access to basic services, especially education. Education plays a crucial role in shaping psychological adjustment and social well-being.

Objective: This study aimed to assess the psychological adjustment of Bihari adults in relation to their educational facilities available in Mirpur camps, identify barriers, and examine the impact on mental health.

Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 140 Bihari adults aged 18 to 60 years living in 20 camps in Mirpur, Dhaka. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire, including socio-demographic, perceptions of educational quality and accessibility, and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28).

Results: The study found that 65% of respondents demonstrated poor psychological adjustment. Younger adults (18-27 years) and those with higher educational attainment showed significantly better psychological resilience (p<0.05). Family income and duration to stay in the camps also influenced outcomes. Analysis revealed that poor quality of educational resourced, unqualified teachers, inadequate infrastructure, and limited accessibility was strongly associated with higher levels of depression, anxiety, insomnia, and social dysfunction.

Conclusion: This research highlights those inadequate educational opportunities significantly undermine psychological adjustment of Bihari adults in Mirpur camps. Improving educational infrastructure, teacher training, financial aid, and access to education is essential for both mental health and social integration of the Bihari community.

Journal of Monno Medical College December, 2025;11(2):107-112