Exploring child abuse and protection interventions amidst public health emergency in Lusaka district, Zambia.
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Date
2023
Authors
Matafwali, Marien
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
The University of Zambia
Abstract
The study explored child abuse risks and protective measures during the COVID-19 pandemic in Lusaka District, Zambia. It employed Urie Bronfenbrenner's Ecological model and a mixed-methods approach. An exploratory sequential research design was adopted for the current study. Data were collected from a total of 193 respondents and comprised 92 child protection Service Providers, 54 parents or caregivers and 47
children.Questionnaire and interview guide and were used to collect data. Qualitative data underwent thematic analysis to identify codes and common themes. The data were coded into categories which included Service Providers (SP), parents (P), children (C), and focus group discussions (FGD). While quantitative data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) to generate frequencies, percentages and one-way ANOVA tests to assess significance. Multiple regression and T-test were also used to test the hypothesis as well as Pearson correlation. Key findings indicated a significant decrease in reported child abuse cases during the pandemic (t-value = -7.315, p = .006). Child neglect and sexual abuse were prevalent, emphasising girls’ vulnerability. Child protection services played a crucial role but 48 per cent of providers reported unpreparedness for emergencies. Child risk factors included age (46.1%), community substance abuse (45%), and parental absence (40%). Child neglect was high during COVID-19 (45% and 43% in 2020 and 2021), followed by sexual abuse (32% and 30%). Re-integration showed a cyclic pattern, with differing
perceptions among Service Providers, parents, and children. Recommendations included integrating child protection in emergency planning, investing in online services, collaborating with community organisations, implementing a national multi sectoral approach, and providing mandatory counseling for abused children.
Description
Thesis of Doctor of Philosophy in Education Psychology.