An evaluation of child abuse and its contribution to criminal behavior in Eket Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State
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Background of the Study
Child abuse remains a critical social issue that poses long-term risks to individual development and community safety. In Eket Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, an increasing number of reported cases of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse are raising concerns about its impact on future criminal behavior. Research indicates that early exposure to abusive environments can lead to maladaptive coping mechanisms and later antisocial tendencies (Oduro, 2023). Local studies have highlighted that children who experience abuse often develop behavioral disorders and struggle with emotional regulation, which predisposes them to engage in criminal activities during adolescence and adulthood (Nwankwo, 2024). Furthermore, socio-economic challenges, family disintegration, and cultural taboos surrounding abuse contribute to a cycle of violence that remains inadequately addressed by existing policies. The interplay between individual trauma and environmental stressors underlines the need for a holistic understanding of the issue. The present study intends to explore the connection between early abuse and later criminal behavior by analyzing local case studies and integrating psychological and sociological perspectives. This comprehensive approach is critical in light of emerging evidence that supports the theory of intergenerational transmission of violence (Emeka, 2025). Understanding these dynamics will not only inform preventive measures but also guide the formulation of rehabilitative programs that address both the psychological scars of abuse and the subsequent criminal behaviors. The study will therefore serve as a basis for developing targeted interventions and policy recommendations that aim to break the cycle of abuse and criminality in the region.
Statement of the Problem
Despite growing awareness, there is limited empirical evidence on how child abuse specifically contributes to criminal behavior in Eket Local Government Area. The prevailing gap in local research obscures the true extent of the problem and hinders effective intervention strategies (Bello, 2024). While national studies provide general correlations between childhood trauma and later delinquency, the unique socio-cultural dynamics in Eket necessitate localized research. The community suffers from insufficient reporting mechanisms and weak child protection policies, exacerbating the issue. Consequently, victims of abuse may later engage in criminal activities without receiving appropriate support or rehabilitation. This lack of targeted research creates challenges for policymakers and social workers who require precise data to formulate effective crime prevention and intervention programs. Addressing this gap is critical to curbing the long-term effects of abuse and reducing criminal incidences in the community (Nnaji, 2023).
Objectives of the Study:
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To evaluate the prevalence and forms of child abuse in Eket.
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To examine the relationship between childhood abuse and subsequent criminal behavior.
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To propose evidence-based interventions for reducing abuse-related criminality.
Research Questions:
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What are the predominant forms of child abuse in Eket Local Government Area?
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How does child abuse correlate with later criminal behavior in the community?
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What interventions can effectively mitigate the progression from abuse to crime?
Research Hypotheses:
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H1: There is a significant relationship between child abuse and later criminal behavior in Eket.
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H2: Victims of severe abuse are more likely to engage in criminal activities compared to those with milder experiences.
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H3: Community-based intervention programs reduce the incidence of crime among abuse survivors.
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it provides a localized insight into the nexus between child abuse and criminal behavior in Eket Local Government Area. The findings will inform policymakers, social workers, and law enforcement on effective intervention strategies. By bridging the research gap, the study contributes to evidence-based reforms in child protection and crime prevention. Moreover, it underscores the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in addressing social ills, offering a roadmap for future studies and community-based initiatives that aim to reduce abuse and its long-term societal impacts (Oduro, 2023).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study is limited to the evaluation of child abuse and its contribution to criminal behavior in Eket Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State. It focuses exclusively on the local context and does not extend to broader regional comparisons or historical trends beyond the immediate research framework.
Definitions of Terms:
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Child Abuse: Any act or series of acts that harm a child physically, emotionally, or sexually.
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Criminal Behavior: Actions that violate legal norms and result in legal sanctions.
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Trauma: Psychological injury resulting from distressing events that can affect behavioral outcomes.
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Chapter One: Introduction
