Socio-demographic and economic influences on perceptions of child abuse and its psychosocial impacts in Enugu, Nigeria

Abstract

Physical assault on children represents a significant societal challenge requiring professional intervention. It violates children's rights, undermining their healthy development and contributing to national decline. As future leaders, children must receive proper care to ensure emotional well-being and balanced growth. This study explored the issue of physical assault on children and its impact on their overall well-being in Enugu, Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey employing a mixed-method approach was used, with qualitative data validating the quantitative findings. A total of 200 respondents participated in the survey, and a focus group discussion was held with secondary school students from Isi-enu Community Secondary School, Agbamere, Nsukka. The study utilized availability sampling and analyzed data using chi-square tests (χ²). Results revealed that 181 (90.5%) respondents identified factors such as poverty, unemployment, corporal punishment as corrective measures, provocation, and parental lack of self-control as primary triggers of physical assault on children. Single parenthood (p = .000), living in disorganized environments (p = .000), and age (p = .037) were also significant contributors. While 62 (31%) respondents viewed physical assault as a normal form of discipline, 138 (69%) recognized it as abuse that severely impacts children's health, leading to poor academic performance, psychological problems, physical disabilities, death, and low self-esteem. Additionally, the study found that there was a lack of government presence and welfare officers to protect abused children in the area. The study concluded that single parenthood and disorganized living conditions are major contributors to physical assault on children, with detrimental effects on their well-being. It also recommended that social workers, health professionals, and other stakeholders conduct seminars to raise awareness of child rights and the consequences of child abuse.