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Pediatrician knowledge, perception, and experience on child abuse and neglect in Saudi Arabia

Hamed S Habib1

  • 1Pediatric Department, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. hamedhabib@hotmail.com

Annals of Saudi Medicine
|May 17, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Pediatricians in Saudi Arabia have adequate knowledge of child abuse and neglect but lack sufficient understanding of reporting procedures. Further training is recommended to enhance their role in child maltreatment prevention.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrician knowledge and practice
  • Child abuse and neglect
  • Public health

Background:

  • Child abuse and neglect pose significant public health challenges.
  • Pediatricians are crucial in identifying and reporting child maltreatment.
  • Understanding the knowledge and experience of Saudi Arabian pediatricians is vital for developing effective interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the knowledge, perception, and professional experience of Saudi Arabian pediatricians concerning child abuse and neglect.
  • To identify gaps in understanding and practice related to child maltreatment.
  • To inform strategies for improving child protection services.

Main Methods:

  • A descriptive study was conducted during a pediatric conference in western Saudi Arabia.
  • 198 healthcare professionals, primarily pediatricians, participated.
  • Data was collected on knowledge, perception, and experience regarding child abuse and neglect.

Main Results:

  • Participants demonstrated adequate overall knowledge of child abuse and neglect (82%-91%).
  • Knowledge regarding the reporting of child abuse and neglect cases was deficient (66%-79%).
  • Professional experience varied, with those educated in Saudi Arabia scoring higher in some areas, while those educated in Western countries excelled in others.

Conclusions:

  • Current knowledge and experience levels are sufficient to develop a comprehensive strategy for child maltreatment prevention and intervention in Saudi Arabia.
  • Pediatricians are positioned to lead and facilitate efforts in combating child abuse and neglect.
  • Targeted training may be necessary to address specific knowledge gaps, particularly in reporting procedures.
Abstract

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