SOCIO-CULTURAL PRACTICES AND CHILD ABUSE IN EKOSODIN COMMUNITY

ABSTRACT

The study investigated the relationship between socio-cultural practices and child abuse in Ekosodin community. It explored 100 residents to identify and understand prevalent socio-cultural practices, categorize various forms of child abuse, determine factors exposing children to abuse, examine the influence of gender on child abuse prevalence, and analyze factors affecting the implementation of the Child’s Right Act. Data collection was carried out through questionnaires administered to the residents, and the data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation tables, with stratified random sampling as the technique. The study investigated and revealed that socio-cultural norms like child labor and early marriage are widely accepted in Ekosodin, contributing to significant concerns about child abuse, particularly physical abuse and neglect of education and basic needs. Factors such as attributing misfortune to children and socioeconomic instability were significant contributors to children's vulnerability. Gendered dynamics showed that boys faced more harsh punishment and emotional neglect, while girls dealt with early marriage and harassment. The study investigated and concluded that despite acknowledging physical abuse and neglect as major issues, there were varied perceptions about child labor and sexual abuse severity. The influence of traditions, financial constraints, awareness, and support systems played crucial roles in implementing the Child’s Right Act. Gender-specific challenges highlighted the need for targeted interventions. Statistical tests showed no significant differences between cultural practices and forms of child abuse or between genders, indicating the necessity for comprehensive strategies to address child rights violations in Ekosodin.