Exploring the factors responsible for child abuse and neglect among parents. A study at New Biadan in the Berekum East Municipality.

Abstract

The concept of child abuse and neglect is a very eclectic one. Its understanding as it occurs varies from individuals, ethnic groups, religious institution, professional bodies etc. However, This study have discussed the occurrence of child abuse and neglect as it occurs in various forms like physical abuses, verbal abuse, emotional/psychological abuse, child labour, child abandonment and child sexual abuse. Furthermore, The researcher also made available the factors that contribute to child abuse and child neglect in our society; This include the parent or caregiver factors, family factors, child factors, environmental and protective factors. The experience of child abuse and neglect has very significant consequences in the life of an individual. It has effects on the health and physical well being, intellectual and cognitive development and emotional, psychological and behavioural aspect of his/her life. All this were critically analysed in this study. Basically, this study does not only state or lament the problems of child abuse and neglect in our society, it also enumerates factors that contribute to its occurrence and its consequences on the child. This study also made a conscientious look at what can be done to abate the menace of child abuse and neglect in our society. And lastly, the researcher also visited teachers, health workers, parents, caregivers, law enforcement officers and residents within New Biadan. New Biadan Area to interview them by the means of a questionnaire so as to get their submissions and what they feel about child abuse and neglect as it affects our social security. The aggregate views of the respondents and the analysis of their responses were fully and meticulously presented in chapter four of this research project.