Knowledge, attitude and practice of general practitioners in Kerman concerning child abuse

Abstract

Objective (s): The aim of this study was to determine the level of knowledge and attitude toward child abuse among general practitioners working in Kerman. Methods: A semi-structured questionnaire was developed based on child abuse literature. 200 physicians participated in this study. 3 questionnaires were filled incorrectly, thus deleted and 197 questionnaires were analyzed. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire were assessed. Results: Most participants did not have adequate knowledge especially in the sexual and psychological aspects. There was a significant relation between knowledge and gender with attitudes toward child abuse. Conclusion: The findings indicated that physicians do not have adequate knowledge and proper attitude regarding child abuse. Implementation of educational programs on child abuse seems necessary for medical students.

Keywords

• child maltreatment
• child abuse
• knowledge
• attitude
• physician