intervention educational program on child maltreatment implemented for female teachers in Jeddah primary schools

Child maltreatment is a complex problem and its prevention requires action on many fronts. Teachers spend many hours a day with children and they are likely to be concerned about child maltreatment at some time during their career. This study was carried out to explore knowledge, attitudes, and practice [KAP], and to raise awareness of teachers with respect to child maltreatment. An intervention educational program was performed, 2008, for 498 female teachers selected through multistage stratified random sample technique from 25 primary Jeddah schools. Health education was conducted using audiovisual aids and pre-designed educational materials [folder, 5 colored brochures booklet, computer CD and gifts] were given to participants. Five educational posters with different themes were distributed in the visited schools. Results showed that 33.9% and 23.0% of teachers reported using emotional and physical punishment with own their children, respectively. Only, 8.2% reported the authorities when discovering a student exposed to maltreatment. The mean teachers' knowledge score was low before the program and significantly improved after it [Paired t = 25.4, P < 0.000]. The highest percentage of knowledge gain score was noticed for indicators of sexual maltreatment, risk factors, and impact of maltreatment. Concerning attitude, considerable changes in most of teachers opinion regarding child maltreatment was found after program. It is concluded from the current study that there was lack of teachers' awareness regarding child maltreatment before the program and educational program was successful in improving it. There is an urgent need for standardized education and training programs for teachers on child maltreatment