SOCIO-CULTURAL FACTORS RESPONSIBLE FOR CHILD ABUSE IN OREDO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA IN EDO STATE

ABSTRACT

The study aimed to investigate the socio-cultural factors responsible for child abuse in Oredo Local Government Area in Edo State. The purpose was fulfilled through four specific objectives: to identify the factors responsible for child abuse, determine the consequences of child abuse and the examine the factors that protects a child from the risk of child abuse in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State. The study followed survey design whereby quantitative technique was applied.

The data were collected through questionnaires using a random sample of 100 respondents. It was found that, the two main causes of child abuse are domestic violence and substance abuse. Children who live in households where violence is present usually end up becoming victims themselves. PCANY reports that 50 to 70 percent of men who abuse their female partners also abuse their children. Substance abuse is another leading cause of child abuse.

The study concluded that, the protection of children from all forms of abuse is a basic right assured by the convention on the right of the child and other international human rights treaties and standards. Child abuse violate the most basic right of children and adolescents hence, children should be protected adequately from all forms of abusers by parents, the government and the general public.