Knowledge and Attitude of Mothers regarding Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse

Abstract

Introduction: Child sexual abuse is a form of child abuse in which an adult or older adolescent uses a child for sexual stimulation. Child sexual abuse can occur in a variety of settings, including home, school, or work (in places where child labor is common). The present study aims to assess the knowledge and attitude of mothers regarding prevention of child sexual abuse in a selected community of New Delhi, and to prepare and disseminate an information booklet on the prevention of child sexual abuse. The objectives of the study were: to assess the knowledge of mothers regarding prevention of child sexual abuse; to assess the attitude of mothers regarding prevention of child sexual abuse; and to prepare and disseminate an information booklet on the prevention of child sexual abuse. Method: A quantitative approach with a descriptive survey design was adopted for the study to collect data from 50 mothers selected by purposive sampling technique. The study was conducted in an urban community of New Delhi. The tools used for data collection was structured knowledge questionnaire to assess knowledge and attitude scale to assess attitude of mothers regarding prevention of child sexual abuse. Result: The analysis revealed that 90% of subjects had inadequate knowledge regarding child sexual abuse. However, 90% subjects had positive attitude regarding prevention of child sexual abuse. Conclusion: Through this study, we conclude that majority of mothers had inadequate knowledge. Therefore, a public education program is needed for parents, with the ultimate aim of protecting children from preventable harm and trauma of sexual abuse. In order to create awareness, an information booklet was disseminated to mothers regarding prevention of child sexual abuse.