Knowledge of Sexual Abuse and Preventive Measures Among Students of Government Girls Day Senior Schools Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State
Abstract
This study employed a quantitative survey research design to investigate the knowledge of sexual abuse and preventive measures among students in Government Girls Day Senior Schools in Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State. A structured questionnaire was meticulously designed to gather data from a targeted sample of 120 respondents. The study adopted a convenient sampling technique, considering the practicality and accessibility of students within the selected schools. Data collected through the questionnaire were presented and analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, were utilized to summarize the quantitative data. Additionally, a one-sample t-test was employed to test hypotheses related to the level of knowledge about sexual abuse, awareness and utilization of preventive measures, and the impact of existing educational programs. The assumed mean of 0 and a critical table value of 2.92 at a 5% level of significance were used in the statistical analysis. Findings revealed significant insights into students’ knowledge levels, their ability to recognize and report instances of sexual abuse, and the effectiveness of preventive measures. The study indicated a positive correlation between educational programs and increased awareness among students. However, certain gaps and challenges were identified, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement in sexual education initiatives. In conclusion, the study contributes to the existing literature by offering specific insights into the context of sexual abuse awareness among students in a defined geographical area. The findings underscore the importance of tailored educational programs to address identified gaps. Recommendations include refining existing initiatives, enhancing collaboration between schools and parents, and considering regional variations in implementing preventive measures. These insights are crucial for policymakers, educators, and healthcare professionals aiming to create more effective strategies for preventing and addressing sexual abuse among adolescents.
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CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
 Background to the Study
Sexual abuse is an alarming and pervasive issue that transcends geographical boundaries, affecting individuals from all walks of life. Among the vulnerable populations, students are particularly susceptible, facing various forms of sexual abuse during their educational journey. This study delves into the knowledge of sexual abuse and preventive measures among students of Government Girls Day Senior Schools in Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State (Abeid et al., 2021; Ajidagba et al., 2021; Babatunde & Sanusi, 2019; Akinsulire, 2017). Understanding the background of this issue is crucial for developing effective strategies to protect students and create a safe educational environment.
In many societies, sexual abuse remains shrouded in silence, perpetuating a culture of secrecy that hinders the identification and prevention of such incidents. The Government Girls Day Senior Schools in Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State serve as a microcosm for exploring the knowledge and awareness levels of students regarding sexual abuse and the preventive measures in place (Abeid et al., 2021; Ajidagba et al., 2021; Babatunde & Sanusi, 2019; Akinsulire, 2017).
The prevalence of sexual abuse is a global concern, and studies conducted in various regions shed light on the extent of the issue (Abeid et al., 2021; Ajidagba et al., 2021). These studies underscore the need for comprehensive research to address the multifaceted nature of sexual abuse.
In the context of Nigeria, sexual abuse is a critical issue that demands attention (Babatunde & Sanusi, 2019; Akinsulire, 2017). Furthermore, Akinsulire’s (2017) comparative study on prevalence patterns and determinants of sexual abuse among adolescents in selected slums and non-slum communities in Lagos emphasizes the need for targeted interventions.
The situation becomes even more complex with the challenges posed by external factors. Al Mamun et al. (2021) discussed the alarming increase in sexual violence and rapes during the COVID-19 pandemic in Bangladesh. The pandemic has brought additional stressors, making preventive measures and awareness crucial to protect vulnerable populations (Al Mamun et al., 2021).
In the specific context of Government Girls Day Senior Schools in Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State, the study aims to investigate the students’ knowledge of sexual abuse and the preventive measures in place. The research questions guiding this study would likely include inquiries about students’ awareness of what constitutes sexual abuse, their understanding of preventive measures, and their experiences or observations within the school environment.
 Statement of Problem
The issue of sexual abuse among students, particularly in the context of Government Girls Day Senior Schools in Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State, presents a pressing concern with notable gaps in the existing literature. Despite the global acknowledgement of sexual abuse as a pervasive problem (Abeid et al., 2021), there remains a dearth of research specifically examining the knowledge levels and awareness of students in this particular region. The literature reveals a substantial focus on sexual abuse prevalence, risk factors, and consequences globally (Ajidagba et al., 2021; Al Mamun et al., 2021; Babatunde & Sanusi, 2019), but there is a noticeable scarcity of studies honing in on preventive measures and students’ understanding of sexual abuse within the educational setting in Zamfara State.
Moreover, the cultural and contextual nuances that shape the experiences of students in Zamfara State are inadequately explored in the existing literature (Mukoro, 2017). Each region may have unique sociocultural factors influencing the occurrence and perception of sexual abuse, necessitating context-specific interventions. While some studies emphasize the impact of external factors, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, on the prevalence of sexual violence (Al Mamun et al., 2021; Rockowitz et al., 2021), there is a distinct lack of research investigating how these external challenges intersect with the existing sociocultural landscape in Zamfara State.
Additionally, the literature review highlights a paucity of research focusing specifically on preventive measures implemented within educational institutions in Nigeria, particularly in Zamfara State. Understanding the existing preventive measures and their effectiveness is crucial for informing targeted interventions and policy recommendations. Therefore, there is an evident gap in the literature about the comprehensive exploration of students’ knowledge, awareness, and the effectiveness of preventive measures within the specific educational context of Government Girls Day Senior Schools in Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State. Addressing these gaps is imperative for the development of contextually relevant strategies to mitigate the impact of sexual abuse on students in this region.
 Objectives of the Study
The following specific objectives were investigated:
- To assess the level of knowledge about sexual abuse among students in Government Girls Day Senior Schools in Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
- To determine the awareness and utilization of preventive measures against sexual abuse among students in the aforementioned schools.
- To evaluate the impact of existing educational programs on sexual abuse prevention among students.
Research Questions
- What is the level of knowledge about sexual abuse among students in Government Girls Day Senior Schools in Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State?
- To what extent are students aware of and utilizing preventive measures against sexual abuse?
- How effective are existing educational programs in preventing sexual abuse among students?
Research Hypotheses
Null Hypotheses(H0):
- There is no significant relationship between the level of knowledge about sexual abuse and students’ ability to identify and report such incidents.
- The awareness and utilization of preventive measures against sexual abuse do not positively correlate with a reduction in the incidence of such cases among students.
Alternative Hypotheses(H1):
- There is a significant relationship between the level of knowledge about sexual abuse and students’ ability to identify and report such incidents.
- The awareness and utilization of preventive measures against sexual abuse positively correlate with a reduction in the incidence of such cases among students.
Significance of the Study
This research bears substantial significance as it illuminates the present landscape of knowledge surrounding sexual abuse among students. Through the identification of gaps in awareness and preventive measures, the study provides invaluable insights with implications for policymakers, educators, and various stakeholders committed to establishing safer learning environments. The study’s findings seek to play a pivotal role in shaping the development of targeted interventions and educational programs. These initiatives aim to empower students by imparting the requisite knowledge and skills necessary for safeguarding themselves against sexual abuse.
The contribution to the profession is evident in the study’s potential to influence the practices and policies surrounding student welfare within educational institutions. Policymakers can utilize the identified gaps to formulate evidence-based regulations, ensuring a more comprehensive approach to preventing and addressing sexual abuse. Educators, armed with the insights from this research, can tailor their approaches to create more informed and supportive learning environments.
Health providers stand to benefit from the study’s implications for preventive measures. The insights gained can inform health professionals about the specific needs of students in the context of sexual abuse, enabling the development of targeted health promotion strategies. Additionally, society as a whole benefits as the research aims to contribute to the creation of a safer and more informed community. By addressing gaps in knowledge and preventive measures, the study seeks to foster a societal culture that prioritizes the well-being and safety of students.
In essence, this research extends beyond academia, resonating with professionals, health providers, and society at large. Its findings offer a roadmap for informed decision-making, ultimately striving towards the creation of an environment where students can thrive without the pervasive threat of sexual abuse.
Scope of the Study
The study centred its investigation on Government Girls Day Senior Schools situated in the Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State. This deliberate geographical restriction served to facilitate a meticulous examination of variables associated with the knowledge and preventive measures about sexual abuse within the distinctive context of these schools. By honing in on this specific location, the researchers aimed to capture the nuanced experiences and perspectives unique to the students within the Government Girls Day Senior Schools in Shinkafi. Variables such as the students’ awareness levels, attitudes towards sexual abuse, and the effectiveness of existing preventive measures were scrutinized within the confines of this specific educational environment. This targeted approach ensured a thorough exploration of the intricacies involved in addressing sexual abuse, acknowledging the significance of location and population characteristics in shaping the dynamics of the study.
Operational Definition of Terms
Sexual Abuse: Unwanted sexual behaviour or activity that involves coercion, force, or manipulation, causing harm to the victim.
Preventive Measures: Interventions and strategies designed to reduce the occurrence of sexual abuse, including awareness programs, counselling services, and policy implementation.
Knowledge Level: The degree of understanding and awareness that students possess regarding the various aspects of sexual abuse, its forms, and preventive measures.
Educational Programs: Formal and informal initiatives implemented within schools to educate students about sexual abuse and its prevention.
Government Girls Day Senior Schools: Refers to the specific schools under consideration in the Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
Incidence: The occurrence or frequency of sexual abuse cases among students within the study area.
Utilization of Preventive Measures: The extent to which students actively apply the preventive measures they are aware of in protecting themselves from sexual abuse.
Policymakers: Individuals involved in formulating and implementing policies related to sexual abuse prevention in educational institutions.
ReferencesÂ
- inkelhor, D., Hotaling, G., Lewis, I. A., & Smith, C. (2020). Sexual abuse in a national survey of adult men and women: Prevalence, characteristics and risk factors. Child Abuse and Neglect, 14(1), 19–28. https://doi.org/10.1016/0145-2134(90)
- Finkelhor, D., Shattuck, A., Turner, H. A., & Hamby, S. L. (2022). The lifetime prevalence of child sexual abuse and sexual assault was assessed in late adolescence. Journal of Adolescent Health, 55(3), 329–333. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jadohealth.2013.12.026
- Folayan, M. O., Odetoyinbo, M., Harrison, A., & Brown, B. (2020). Rape in Nigeria: A silent epidemic among adolescents with implications for HIV infection. Global Health Action, 7 (1), 25583. https://doi.org/10.3402/gha.v7.25583
- Goddard, W., & Melville, S. (2020). Research Methodology: An Introduction (2nd ed.). Blackwell Publishing.
- Gray, D. E. (2018). Doing Research in the Real World. London: Sage.
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