The Harsh Realities of Institutional Life

The orphanage for mentally and physically disabled children in Pskov presents a grim picture of institutional life where children, referred to as social orphans, face extreme isolation and limited education. Many of the children come from difficult backgrounds, and visits from relatives are rare, deepening their sense of abandonment. The environment is characterized by strict regulations and a power hierarchy that often leads to manipulation and violence among the children. This dynamic becomes especially troubling when considering that staff frequently rely on stronger children to enforce order, leading to an atmosphere fraught with fear and intimidation.