Prevalence and pattern of emotional abuse of children in their homes; self reported experience of children in Ilorin Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction The prevalence and pattern of emotional abuse of children in Nigeria is poorly understood. Data from other parts of the world indicate it is commoplace and has enduring negative mental health impact. The current study aims to understand the phenomenon the more. Objectives To determine the prevalence and pattern of emotional abuse of children in their homes in Nigeria Methods Cross sectional survey of 1, 5444 secondary school students aged 11-18 years in Ilorin Nigeria using multistage random sampling technique with proportional allocation was done. Respondents completed the ICAST-CH questionnaire which covers child abuse in its several forms including emotional abuse. Prevalence of emotional abuse was computed. Results All respondents (100%) had experienced emotional abuse at home in the last one year Table 1: Prevalnce annd pattern of emotional abuse at home among children in Ilorin Nigeria Emotional Abuse* (n=1554) Frequency Percentage Threatened to hurt or kill you or threatened with evil spirits 1554 100 Screamed at 1528 98.3 Bullied by another child at home 1218 78.4 Insulted 1122 72.2 Made you feel embarrassed 574 36.9 Wished you were dead 224 14.4 Locked out of home 196 12.6 Threatened to abandon you 95 6.1 Conclusions Emotional abuse of children at home is common place in Ilorin Nigeria. It would seem important to educate parents on what emotional abuse is and its potential impact in children. Disclosure No significant relationships.

Keywords

• Child
• emotional abuse
• home