Child maltreatment between knowledge, attitude and beliefs among Saudi pediatricians, pediatric residency trainees and medical students
Date
2017
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Annals of Medicine and Surgery
Abstract
Background: Child maltreatment is not included in Saudi medical schools and pediatric residency curriculums,
which might limit knowledge and spread misconceptions. Additionally, physicians might have
different attitudes regarding reporting child abuse and neglect. In this study, we hypothesize that
medical students and pediatric trainees have limited knowledge, oblivious attitude and misbeliefs
regarding child maltreatment in comparison to experienced pediatricians. But, medical students and
trainees might hold higher motives and willingness to learn about child maltreatment and their
consequences.
Methods: A self reported questionnaire was distributed after a pilot study to include pediatricians, pediatrics
trainees and medical students in all main areas of pediatrics services: pediatrics wards, pediatrics
outpatient clinics, critical care and pediatrics emergency.
Results: In disregard to their level of training, medical students and physicians believed that child
maltreatment happens within the kingdom and is common. They were familiar with the child
maltreatment definition, although only one third thought it is subject to culture sensitivity. However,
experienced physicians were more knowledgeable especially about neglect. Moreover, female participants
were more likely to report despite being more skeptical of readiness of Saudi law system to deal
with cases of maltreatment. In general, knowledge about reporting was clearly deficit at all levels.
Fortunately, all participants requested and were enthusiastic to receive further training.
Conclusion: Saudi medical students, pediatrics trainees and pediatricians have good basic knowledge,
positive attitude and willingness to learn more to provide a safe environment for children in Saudi
Arabia. However, knowledge in regards to reporting child maltreatment is a major observed defect. Still,
further education and training are needed to combat CAN in Saudi Arabia.
© 2017 The Author(s)
Description
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Article
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Keywords
Experienced physicians, child abuse, neglect, Residency trainee, medical students, healthcare professionals, International Resources, Saudi Arabia
Citation
Alnasser, Y., Albijadi, A., Abdullah, W., Aldabeeb, D., Alomair, A., Alsaddiqi, S., & Alsalloum, Y. (2017). Child maltreatment between knowledge, attitude and beliefs among Saudi pediatricians, pediatric residency trainees and medical students. Annals of Medicine and Surgery, 16, 7-13.