CHILD ABUSE AND PERSONALITY DEVELOPMENT AMONG CHILDEN IN MIKANG LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, PLATEAU STATE
Abstract
This study investigates the prevalence, causes, and effects of child abuse and neglect in Mikang Local Government Area (LGA), Plateau State, Nigeria. Child abuse in Mikang LGA manifests in various forms, including physical, sexual, emotional abuse, and neglect, exacerbated by socio-economic deprivation, cultural beliefs, and inadequate protective measures. Utilizing a descriptive survey research design, data were collected from 250 respondents, including children, parents, and educators, to analyze the local factors contributing to child abuse. Findings indicate that the children have experienced abuse, with poverty, cultural norms endorsing corporal punishment, and early marriage as primary contributors. Emotional and psychological impacts of abuse, including anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, are prevalent among victims, impeding their development and well-being. The study emphasizes the need for community awareness campaigns, enforcement of child protection laws, poverty alleviation initiatives, and accessible mental health support services to address the root causes of child abuse in the region. The research provides critical insights and practical recommendations to inform policy interventions aimed at reducing child maltreatment in similar rural communities across Nigeria.
Full-Text Access Notice
In accordance with the NERD Policy on promoting peer-reviewed publication, public access to the full text of a project, thesis or dissertation is restricted for three years, allowing the author and supervisors sufficient time to pursue peer-reviewed publication.
During this period, researchers with legitimate academic or research purposes may request authorisation directly from the author to enable NERD to release the indexed full texts of the work using the form below.