The Impact of Child Maltreatment on the Psychological Development of Primary School Learners

Admire Chafa
Faculty of Education, Department of Policy Studies and Leadership
Midlands State University, Zimbabwe
Email: chafaa@staff.msu.ac.zw

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to investigate how child maltreatment affected the psychological growth of primary school students in Bulawayo Metropolitan Province. The study employed a qualitative approach, gathering data through observations, focus groups, and interviews. Ten educators, ten parents, and ten heads of schools took part in the research. The effects of child abuse on the psychological growth of students studying primary education were noted. Throughout the investigation, a total of eight students were monitored. The study’s findings demonstrated the negative effects of child abuse on psychological development. Numerous types of child abuse were listed, including physical, sexual, emotional, and neglectful behaviour as well as a shortage of food in households and a lack of commitment from government agencies in charge of children’s safety. The study suggests that in order to end child abuse, parents and teachers should get training on the value of protecting children’s rights.