Abstract
Background: Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) is a global issue with severe consequences, involving sexual activities with a child who lacks comprehension or consent. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that 1 in 5 women and 1 in 13 men globally have experienced sexual abuse during childhood. In Namibia, CSA rates are high, and in contrast, CSA in Botswana has received less attention due to other health priorities. The CDC emphasizes the preventability of CSA and advocates for enhanced surveillance systems and data collection for monitoring, leading to evidence-based prevention policies and practices.
Aim and Objectives: The study aimed to determine the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions (KAP) of male students and employees from selected universities on child sexual abuse (CSA) in Windhoek, Namibia. The objectives were to determine the prevalence of CSA in Windhoek through the responses of male students and employees from the selected university, to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of these respondents regarding CSA in Windhoek, and to identify factors contributing to CSA in Windhoek based on their responses.
Methodology: A quantitative cross-sectional design was employed to gather primary data from a sample of 568 participants. The study population included approximately 8 223 male students and 1 092 male employees at the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST). A sample size of 551 individuals was initially estimated using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) EPINFO program, accounting for a 5% error margin, one cluster, and 95% confidence level. Data were collected using a self-administered online questionnaire, disseminated via email and institutional WhatsApp platforms. The questionnaire included sections on demographics, prevalence of CSA, and KAP towards CSA, and was structured to take 10 to 15 minutes to complete. Responses were automatically captured in a Google Sheets spreadsheet and subsequently exported to IBM SPSS version 27.0 for analysis. Data management involved secure storage in password-protected files and reputable cloud-based platforms, with regular backups to prevent data loss. Descriptive statistics, such as frequency distributions and percentages, were reported for the identified factors. Additionally, Pearson’s correlation coefficients and Multiple Linear Regression Analysis were utilized to explore the relationships and impact of various predictors on the perception of CSA.
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Results and Discussion: The study on Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) in Namibia highlights both awareness and misconceptions among respondents. While there is a high level of awareness regarding CSA prevalence, misconceptions persist – such as the belief that CSA is less likely to occur in reputable families or predominantly affects children from low socio-economic backgrounds. The study also reveals weak but significant correlations between knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and CSA factors, emphasizing the complex interplay of these elements. Respondents acknowledge the vulnerability of children from low socio-economic backgrounds and those with disabilities.
Conclusion: The study underscores the urgent need for comprehensive education and awareness programs to address CSA in Namibia. Targeted interventions should focus on dispelling myths, enhancing reporting mechanisms, and providing support for vulnerable populations. Legislative reforms and community engagement are crucial to creating a safer environment for children. Further research should explore longitudinal impacts and incorporate qualitative methods to deepen understanding of CSA dynamics.
Keywords: attitude, child sexual abuse, knowledge, perception