Self reported experience of sexual abuse among children in their homes in Ilorin Nigeria

Abstract

IntroductionThe sexual abuse of children is well documented in literature. Data on it from Nigeria is rather sparse. The current study examines the prevalence and pattern of sexual abuse with a view to increasing our understanding of it.ObjectivesTo determine the prevalence and pattern of sexual abuse of children at home in Ilorin Nigeria.MethodsA cross sectional survey of 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 sexual abuse. Prevalence of sexual abuse was computed.ResultsOver a third (586) of participants experienced some form of sexual abuse in the last year. Table 1: prevalence and pattern of sexual abuse at homeSexual Abuse* (n=586)FrequencyPercentageTalked to you in a sexual way42071.7Touched private parts33356.8Showed pornography14925.4Made you look at private parts13623.2Tried to have sex with you (unwilling)6110.4Made a sex video of you--ConclusionsSexual abuse of children occurs commonly in Ilorin Nigeria. There is a need for further research towards understnding it determinants towards strengthening systems of safeguarding children against it.DisclosureNo significant relationships.