This research investigates the multifaceted nature of child abuse in Pece-Laroo division, Gulu city, focusing on its causes, forms, environments, and the effectiveness of existing policies and interventions. A sample of 50 respondents participated in the study, providing insights through structured questionnaires. Findings revealed that child abuse in the region is influenced by various factors, notably poverty, domestic violence, parental mental health, and substance abuse. These factors contribute to different forms of abuse, including physical, emotional, sexual, child labor, neglect, and psychological abuse. The home environment, characterized by economic instability, neglect, communication barriers, and substance exposure, emerged as a significant contributing factor to child abuse. Similarly, school environments were found to harbor instances of harassment, emotional and physical abuse, sexual abuse, and lack of support from school authorities. Perceptions regarding existing policies and interventions varied, with calls for comprehensive reforms to strengthen child protection laws, increase parental awareness, and enhance intervention programs. Recommendations include policy reforms, intervention programs targeting root causes, education and training for stakeholders, collaboration among relevant authorities, and allocation of adequate resources. Areas for further research include longitudinal studies on the long-term effects of child abuse, comparative studies across different regions, qualitative research on stakeholders' perspectives, and evaluation of intervention effectiveness. Overall, the study underscores the urgent need for comprehensive, multi-sectoral approaches to address child abuse effectively and create safer environments for children in Pece-Laroo division, Gulu city.
- Quote paper
- Komagum Robert (Author), 2024, Research On The Effects Of Child Abuse, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.hausarbeiten.de/document/1559487
