Prevalence and pattern of emotional abuse of children in their homes; self reported experience of children in Ilorin Nigeria

IntroductionThe prevalence and pattern of emotional abuse of children in Nigeria is poorly understood. Data from other parts of the world indicate it is commoplace and has enduring negative mental health impact. The current study aims to understand the phenomenon the more.ObjectivesTo determine the prevalence and pattern of emotional abuse of children in their homes in NigeriaMethodsCross sectional survey of 1, 5444 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 emotional abuse. Prevalence of emotional abuse was computed.ResultsAll respondents (100%) had experienced emotional abuse at home in the last one year Table 1: Prevalnce annd pattern of emotional abuse at home among children in Ilorin NigeriaEmotional Abuse* (n=1554)FrequencyPercentageThreatened to hurt or kill you or threatened with evil spirits1554100Screamed at152898.3Bullied by another child at home121878.4Insulted112272.2Made you feel embarrassed57436.9Wished you were dead22414.4Locked out of home19612.6Threatened to abandon you956.1ConclusionsEmotional abuse of children at home is common place in Ilorin Nigeria. It would seem important to educate parents on what emotional abuse is and its potential impact in children.DisclosureNo significant relationships.