Youth understanding of child protection issues- Pakistan

It is estimated that more than 60% of Pakistan’s populations is youth, aged between 18-35 years. Most of them are at a point where they are either ready to have their own children or have entered parenthood. It is important... [ view full abstract ]

It is estimated that more than 60% of Pakistan’s populations is youth, aged between 18-35 years. Most of them are at a point where they are either ready to have their own children or have entered parenthood. It is important to gauge their understanding of issues pertaining to child protection including child abuse, neglect and violence. This study included 250 youth participants from various walks of life including university students and young professional from rural and urban setting. Quantitative Questionnaire design was used. Participant’s knowledge and attitudes about emotional abuse, sexual abuse, neglect and exposure to violence was studied. It was seen that most participants had good knowledge about the prevalence of abuse and violence, emotional abuse and exposure to violence. However, some participants were not clear about the definition of physical abuse and believed that physical punishment can be used for disciplining children. Similarly, some participants were also unclear about sexual abuse and thought that sexual abuse is only limited to rape. This can be due to the myths and taboos that surround physical abuse and sexual abuse.
These are only preliminary finding but more research needs to be conducted on the existing understanding of issues pertaining to child abuse, neglect and violence. Only then, adequate steps can be taken to sensitize and engage young adults to protect children.