Perceptions of the caregivers on the factors associated with child sexual abuse in Longisa and Mulot divisions of Bomet County

Abstract

Background: Child sexual abuse (CSA) is a rampant problem in the society though it is usually underreported especially in Kenya and other African Countries. Available literature on the causes is very limited due to limited studies done in this area. Several myths and hypotheses have been put forward on the possible predisposing factors. Parents and families of affected children often do not know which steps to take to assist their children who have been sexually abused. Effects of sexual abuse of children are so far reaching ranging from physical to long lasting psychological trauma. Longisa County hospital records show that 2 to 3 cases are seen every month. Objective: To describe the community perception on the factors leading to child sexual abuse in Longisa and Mulot Divisions of Bomet County. Study Design and Methodology: Descriptive study design employing both qualitative and quantitative approaches was used. The study was conducted among parents and guardians of child victims of CSA and key informants in Longisa and Mulot areas of Bomet County. Data was collected from parents or guardians using interviewer administered questionnaire. FGDs were conducted among parents and in-depth interviews of key informants to elicit their perceptions and opinions on the subject matter. Qualitative data was transcribed, coded and categorized while quantitative data was entered using Epi info v10 and analysed using STATA v10. Results: Girls between the ages 5-10 years from one parent homes are the most affected. Perpetrators are young men between the ages 18-25 years, working in casual jobs and familiar with the child. Family break-ups, abandonment of African traditional child rearing habits, unemployment and silence on the matter are among the perceived causes. Conclusions: CSA is a rampant problem in the community studied that is often shunned than discussed and the perceived causes are multiple. Recommendations: We recommend public health measures to educate the community on the prevalence and impact of CSA on the affected children and their families. Limitation: the topic of CSA is a sensitive one to the victims, their families and the community and therefore eliciting information on the same is a challenge.