An Exploration of the Effects and Means of Mitigating Child Abuse on The Mental Development of Rural Female Learners at Nyakapupu, Chipangura and Chimbumu Rural Secondary Schools
- Author
- Goredema, D. B.
- Title
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An Exploration of the Effects and Means of Mitigating Child Abuse on The Mental
Development of Rural Female Learners at Nyakapupu, Chipangura and Chimbumu Rural
Secondary Schools - Abstract
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This thesis investigates the detrimental effects of child abuse on the mental development of rural female learners in Zimbabwe in Guruve District in Mashonaland Central Province. The case study research design was used and open-ended questionnaires and focus group interviews were used to solicit data from senior teachers and victims of child abuse respectively. The findings reveal a high prevalence of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse in rural communities, underscoring the vulnerability of young girls in these settings. The research demonstrates the profound impact of abuse on cognitive, emotional, and social development. Learners who experienced abuse exhibited significantly lower academic performance, higher rates of anxiety and depression, disrupted social relationships, and increased vulnerability to long-term psychological trauma. Findings of the study also showed that a majority of abused female learners have been found to develop aggressive behaviours and other negative risk-taking behaviours as a result of the negative modelling their minds have been exposed to. Mental health problems such as emotional insecurities, worthlessness and
unexplainable anger towards their peers and teachers were also experienced by rural female
learners who have been victims of child abuse. The study also discovered that some victims struggled to cope with learning as a result of disturbed memory and cognitive functioning.
However, the study also identifies protective factors, such as supportive family environments, community resources, and access to mental health services that can mitigate the negative effects of abuse. The thesis concludes by recommending comprehensive strategies to address child abuse, including robust prevention programs, early identification initiatives, and increased access to therapeutic support for rural female learners. This research underscores the urgent need for a multi-pronged approach to protect the mental well-being of vulnerable girls in
Zimbabwe and ensure their full potential is realized. - Date
- 2024
- Publisher
- BUSE
- Keywords
- Child Abuse
- Mental Development
- Female Learners
- Supervisor
- Mr Shasha
- Media
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GOREDEMA DANANAI BRIDGET