Evaluation Of A Child Protection Education Programme For Mothers In Selected Communities Of Durg District

Abstract

Background:
Child abuse continues to be a significant public health concern worldwide, affecting children’s physical health, emotional well-being, and social development. Although India has established legal and policy frameworks for child protection, limited awareness among caregivers remains a barrier to timely recognition, prevention, and reporting of abuse. Strengthening maternal knowledge through community-based education may contribute to improved child safeguarding practices. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a structured Child Protection Education Programme in improving mothers’ knowledge regarding child abuse in selected communities of Durg District, Chhattisgarh.

Methods:
A quantitative pre-experimental one-group pre-test–post-test design was adopted among 100 mothers selected through a non-probability convenience sampling method. Baseline knowledge regarding child abuse was assessed using a validated 35-item structured questionnaire. Participants received a structured educational programme consisting of interactive teaching sessions, audio-visual aids, group discussions, and educational materials. Knowledge was reassessed seven days after the intervention using the same assessment tool. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, paired t-test, and chi-square test.

Results:
The findings revealed a significant improvement in mothers’ knowledge following the intervention. The mean knowledge score increased from 15.42 ± 4.28 before the programme to 27.81 ± 3.16 after the intervention, showing a mean difference of 12.39 ± 3.84 (t = 22.48, df = 99, p< 0.001). The percentage of mothers with good knowledge increased from 12.0% to 79.0%, while the intervention demonstrated a large effect size (Cohen’s d = 1.82). Post-test knowledge was significantly associated with educational status (p = 0.005), occupation (p = 0.043), and previous exposure to child protection information (p = 0.021).

Conclusion:
The Child Protection Education Programme was effective in enhancing mothers’ knowledge regarding child abuse. Community-based educational strategies integrated into maternal and child health services may strengthen caregivers’ ability to identify warning signs, adopt preventive measures, and seek timely support. The findings highlight the important role of Community Health Nurses in delivering sustainable child protection education and promoting safer environments for children.