Review of Child and Adolescent Sexual Abuse in Nigeria: Implications for 21st Century Counsellors
Date
2020
Journal Title
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Volume Title
Publisher
Covenant International Journal of Psychology
Abstract
Child and adolescent sexual abuse (CSA) represent sexual abuse with
children and adolescents, and it remains a global concern. Though prevalent in
Nigeria, there is still a dearth of research on its prevention, treatment and
disclosure, causing a threat to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs); a threat to the education of young children; a threat to the psychosocial
functionalities of children and adolescents and ultimately weakening the strength of
the nation. This paper reviewed the literature on child sexual abuse in Nigeria. The
focus was to identify research gaps which could lead to further researches as a way
of bringing the menace to its much-reduced form, if not complete eradication.
Nigerian-authored, peer-reviewed papers cited in International Journals were
examined. Reports from international and local NGOs and U.N. agencies were also
considered. Findings from the review indicate there are fewer published studies on
sexual abuse of children compared to the magnitude of the problem in Nigeria. It is
mostly underreported, and not many authors explored the causes, effects, and
possible strategies to prevent non-disclosure. Nation/region-wide surveys or studies
on CSA in Nigeria are also very scarce. Not much on the roles of the counselling
profession as a way of helping to prevent, create awareness, as well as providing
psychosocial healing for CSA victims in Nigeria has been explored. In the light of
fulfilling SDGs, it is recommended that researches that can inform proper
counselling in this area, be conducted. Also, the need for nationwide or regionwide surveys which will throw to light the current realities of CSA in Nigeria so
that a well-directed approach to its eradication can be explored was emphasized.
Furthermore, the need for stricter and well-enforced policies that respect no
persons, tribe or religion was also noted.
Description
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Keywords
child sexual abuse, research, International Resources, Nigeria, adolescents, counseling
Citation
Okunlola, O. B., Gesinde, A. M., Nwabueze, A. C., & Okojide, A. (2020). Review of Child and Adolescent Sexual Abuse in Nigeria: Implications for 21st Century Counsellors. Covenant International Journal of Psychology, 5(1).