Socio-cultural factors associated with perception of child abuse among women in Nsukka LGA

Implications for social work practice in Nigeria

Abstract

Child abuse has become a global epidemic whose background is deeply rooted on perception and socio-cultural structure of the society. As a result, children face a number of social, mental and emotional problems from their parents, family members, guardians and care givers. Therefore, the study was embarked upon to examine those socio-cultural factors associated with child abuse. Data from 498 women were collected and analyzed using questionnaire. Findings from this study revealed that perception of what constitute child abuse differs among women in Nsukka L.G.A. Also, factors such as age, education, occupation, unemployment, marital status, tradition and language have statistically significant association with child abuse. In conclusion, social workers should tackle this societal problem and dehumanizing actions against children through awareness creation to sensitize public perception on child abuse, collaboration with significant others and advocacy for implementation of child protection acts established in Nigeria. Social workers should showcase their professional competence by rendering selfless services in guarding against any form of abuse meted on children which have numerous consequences on growth, development and well-being of children.