Orphan

Orphan

An orphan is a child whose parents are deceased, unknown, or have permanently abandoned them. In common usage, only a child who has lost both parents due to death is called an orphan. When referring to animals, it describes an infant that has been abandoned by its parents and must now be cared for by others, typically surrogate parents.

Definition

The United Nations defines an orphan as a child under 18 years of age who has lost one or both parents to any cause of death. According to this definition, there were nearly 140 million orphans globally in 2015.

Types of Orphans

There are four types of orphans:

1. Single Orphans: A child who has lost one parent.
2. Double Orphans: A child who has lost both parents.
3. Maternal Orphans: A child whose mother has died.
4. Paternal Orphans: A child whose father has died.

Orphanages and Foster Care

Historically, orphans were cared for in orphanages, institutions that house and care for children without parents. However, in recent years, there has been a shift towards foster care and adoption services, as these are seen as more beneficial for the child's development and well-being.

Orphans in Literature and Popular Culture

Orphans are common characters in literature and popular culture, often depicted as being resilient and possessing a strong sense of independence. Some famous orphans from literature include Harry Potter, Oliver Twist, and Anne of Green Gables.

See Also

• Adoption
• Foster care
• Orphanage
• Child abandonment
• United Nations