Teachers and Caregivers Knowledge and Attitude About Child Rights and Child Protection in Muscat, Oman.

Abstract

Objectives: Child abuse and neglect (CAN) is a pervasive public health problem that transcends geographical, religious, economic and ethnic boundaries. It can result in both short- and long-term negative consequences and unhealthy lifestyles among victims. This study aimed to evaluate the awareness and attitudes of teachers and caregivers of Grade 1-4 children regarding child rights and their knowledge of the available child protection services in Oman.

Methods: This cross-sectional study examined self-reported knowledge and attitudes regarding child rights and child protection services in the Muscat governorate, Oman, from September to December 2017. Of the 50 eligible schools that offered Grades 1-4, 6 schools were randomly selected. All teachers in the selected schools were invited to participate. Additionally, all caregivers of children from 4 randomly selected classes in each school were invited to participate in the study by completing a questionnaire.

Results: A total of 397 caregivers (response rate = 66.2%) and 168 teachers (response rate = 55.7%) completed the questionnaires. Both caregivers and teachers demonstrated a positive attitude towards child rights and child protection. However, their knowledge regarding available child protection services and the existing Omani child law was limited. A significant positive association was found between teacher participation in awareness activities on CAN and the reporting of suspected cases of sexual and physical abuse to the concerned authorities (P = 0.001 and 0.007, respectively).

Conclusions: While caregivers and teachers reported a positive attitude towards children's rights, their knowledge regarding child protection services in Oman was limited. It is therefore mandatory to improve and expand teacher training programmes and awareness activities for caregivers to increase their understanding of child protection services. This will increase the utilisation of these services, maximising benefits for the community and providing better protection for affected children.