Physical Abuse, Neglect and Academic Achievement of Primary School Pupils

Abstract

The study focused on child abuse and neglect on pupils’ academic achievement in primary schools. The ex-post facto design was adopted. Out of the four forms of child abuse, two were identified for the study, physical abuse and neglect. Four research questions were formulated to guide the study. The population of the study consist of 3125 primary five (5) pupils. 312 primary five (5) pupils were selected as sample from thirteen primary schools from the population using simple random sampling technique. Mean and standard deviation were used to answer the research questions. The result revealed that physical abuse and child neglect influence pupils’ academic achievement. Based on the findings, it was recommended that parents and guardians should see beating, hitting, slapping, punching among others as physical abuse and should desist from using them as means of correcting children under their care. Rather advice and state the implication of any negative behaviour a child wears to correcting them whenever they derail from adult expectations on such children and also make home a peaceful place for their children, love, protect and care for them. The study concluded that if child abuse and neglect are reduced to its beeriest minimum, pupils’ academic achievement in primary schools would be enhanced towards development of other levels of education for national development.

Understanding the Spectrum and Determinants of Child Abuse and Neglect in Nkpor-Uno, Anambra State, Nigeria

“…Emotional abuse entails the consistent undermining of a child's self-worth and emotional security, leading to longlasting psychological scars (Mercer & Karim, 2023). Mental and psychological abuse involve manipulation, gaslighting, or threats that undermine a child's mental health and stability (Ifeyinwa & Ncheta, 2016). Sexual abuse involves any form of sexual activity imposed on a child, causing immense trauma and distress (Proctor & Dubowitz, 2013).…”