Incidence of child abuse among primary school children in Menoufiya

ABSTRACT

This exploratory work aimed at studying the incidence of physical and emotional abuse of primary school children in Shebin EI-Kom, Menoufiya. The sample comprised 778 pupils, aged 6-12 years. Data were collected using a questionnaire sheet and the observation of the apparent signs of physical and emotional abuse. The results revealed that boys suffered from physical abuse more than girls as a result of cruel beating committed by their parents. Also, older children were exposed more to cruel beating by parents. Child abuse was more commonly encountered among educated parents and employed mothers. Mothers' neglect was found more among working mothers. Expressions of deep grief, shyness, and fear were shown by children while answering questions related to emotional abuse. It was concluded that an overlap exists among various forms of child abuse. It is recommended to conduct a program for prevention of all types of child abuse