Cultural Beliefs and Parental Awareness of Child Abuse: Psycho-Sociological Perspectives from Edo State, Nigeria

Despite legislative initiatives aimed at promoting child rights in Nigeria, child abuse remains pervasive in the country. Several studies have focused on the prevalence and consequences of child abuse. But only few have investigated how cultural beliefs affect parent awareness and perceptions of abusive parenting practices. This study examines the effect of cultural beliefs on parental awareness of child abuse from psycho-sociological perspective in Egor Local Government Area, Edo State, Nigeria. The study was based on the Ecological Systems Theory and the Social Learning Theory, which account for the influence of the interactions between parents and their children within the family, community and wider socio-cultural context on parents' beliefs, behaviours, and child-rearing practices, as well as through observation and socialisation. A descriptive survey research design was employed and quantitative approach was used. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 400 respondents. Data were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistical tools. The results indicated that parents had a moderate awareness of child abuse, but there were deeply entrenched cultural attitudes that continued to affect parents' perceptions of acceptable discipline behaviours, such as corporal punishment, child labour and the excessive burden of domestic responsibilities for children. Also, while there is awareness of child abuse in the homes, deep-rooted cultural values persist in parenting which affects child protection and the fulfilment of children's rights. It thus calls for culturally appropriate intervention initiatives to be implemented to combat negative traditional beliefs and to advocate for positive parenting and child rights.