Prevalence of Domestic Violence among School Children

Adeyele, Victoria Olubola; Makinde, Veronica Ibitola

doi:10.9734/jsrr/2021/v27i1230471

Cited by 1 publication

(3 citation statements)

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“…In Nigeria, violence against children is a widespread issue, predominantly perpetrated by people they know such as parents, caregivers, teachers and neighbors (Erunke, 2020; National Population Commission of Nigeria, 2016). Six out of ten children in the country experience one or more forms of physical, sexual, verbal, psychological, emotional or economic violence (Adeyele, 2021; Adeyele and Makinde, 2021; Miller et al , 2018; Roy, 2015), with over 70% experiencing this violence repeatedly. Physical violence, sexual violence and emotional violence are prevalent forms of abuse often occurring in places where the child should feel safe (Miller et al , 2018; National Population Commission of Nigeria, UNICEF Nigeria and US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2015).…”

Section: Literature Reviewmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…Domestic violence is inhumane conduct by a close person to control and dominate the other intimate person. It may also be defined as hostile, aggressive and frightening actions, violence or maltreatment perpetrated on a person by a present or past close partner or family member (Adeyele and Makinde, 2021).…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…Navlakha (2021) found that the highest prevalence of child mental health issues is observed in North Africa, the Middle East and Western Europe. In Nigeria, research has revealed the prevalence of domestic violence (Adeyele and Makinde, 2021; Aihie, 2010), which severely affects children’s mental well-being (Uchenna, 2022). Together for Girls (2015) reported that 19% of boys and girls experience unacceptably high rates of violence before the age of 18.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

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Mental health disorder as a risk factor for domestic violence experienced by school children

Adeyele,

Makinde

2023

MHRJ

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Purpose Domestic violence is a universal social concern, and its implication on children’s mental health is a global health predicament. Although the aftereffect of domestic violence on the mental health of women is well researched, mental health disorders of children in terms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), conduct disorder (CD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), general anxiety disorder (GAD), separation anxiety disorder (AD) and mood disorder (MD) on account of domestic violence is rarely investigated. Hence, the purpose of the study is to investigate the impact of exposure to domestic violence on children’s mental health. Design/methodology/approach To examine the correlation between domestic violence and mental health among children, in a survey of public primary schools in Ekiti State, Nigeria, the authors employed 664 pupils with simple random techniques. The Multidimensional Domestic Violence Scale assessed the participants’ exposure to domestic violence. The Child & Youth Mental Health General Screening Questionnaire was used to examine respondents’ mental health. Findings The results revealed a high incidence of domestic violence among children. It also showed a substantial correlation between domestic violence and the mental health of primary school pupils. Children living with domestic violence experience significantly increased rates of ADHD, ODD, AD, GAD and MD as forms of mental health disorders. Research limitations/implications Given the unpleasantness of this social issue affecting the well-being of children globally, it is imperative to engage in intervention and prevention packages that will assist the victims, perpetrators, parents, teachers, schools and other stakeholders. Introducing counselling services into the primary school curriculum will assist victims and those at risk develop self-confidence that will enable them to report their violators. Although counselors do not diagnose, early detection of victims would assist in early intervention where counselors can use different techniques and approaches to help such victims to resolve all forms of cognitive distortions that can lead to mental health disorders. Counselling services can help in providing referral opportunities to victims or “at risk children,” rehabilitation and follow-up services for victims of domestic violence. Practical implications Government organizations should also reintroduce health-care services where clinical psychologists will be available in primary schools to provide psychological services to meet the needs of the victims. Originality/value Conclusively, the study presents evidence that children who witness domestic violence face a significant risk of developing mental health disorders. The findings highlight the potential harm that domestic violence can inflict on children’s mental well-being. Mental health conditions such as ADHD, CD, ODD, GAD, AD and MD are commonly observed in these children. It recommends establishing early intervention programs for children witnessing domestic violence in schools and communities and programs to detect and address mental health issues promptly.

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