Assessment of Mothers' Knowledge about Early Detection of Child Abuse at Child Health Centers in Ismailia City

Document Type : Original Article

Abstract

 Background: Child abuse (CA) is physical, sexual, or emotional maltreatment and neglect of the child,
any activity that is done forcefully against the child’s will. It is a significant worldwide problem with a
serious effect on the child. The aim of this study is to assess mothers' knowledge about early detection
of abuse in preschool and school-age children. Subject and methods: This descriptive study involved
355 mothers. The study was conducted at four maternal and child health centers in Ismailia city.
Tools: An interviewing questionnaire form was prepared to assess the mother's knowledge about early
detection of child abuse. The fieldwork was from the beginning of January 2016 to the end of April
2016 for data collection. Results reveal that 84.8% of mothers had unsatisfactory knowledge
regarding child abuse while 85.1% of them had unsatisfactory knowledge regarding patterns of child
abuse, 82.5% of them had unsatisfactory knowledge regarding all indicators of child abuse, and 87.6%
had unsatisfactory knowledge regarding the effects of child abuse. Conclusion: Mothers have
unsatisfactory knowledge regarding child abuse, patterns, indicators, and effects. Recommendation:
Apply educational programs for mothers about patterns and early detection of CA, and potential
offenders. 

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