Exploring Gender Dynamics Among Adolescents in Ajegunle Community in Ikorodu, Lagos in Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse

Abstract

Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) is a global challenge that threatens the achievement of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) of the United Nations. Although CSA has received commendable research attention in the last few decades, especially in developed nations, accurate data on the prevalence of CSA along with its characteristics remain far-fetched in developing societies such as Nigeria. In fact, evidence of CSA among in-school adolescents from low-income communities in Southwest Nigeria appears inadequate. Consequently, this study intends to bridge the gap by providing preliminary findings on the prevalence of CSA among in-school adolescents in an urban slum in Ajegunle community, Ikorodu, Lagos, Nigeria. The study also explored the gender dynamics in the experiences and characteristics of CSA among the study participants. Using a survey research design, a total of 190 adolescents (M=45.3%, F=54.7%) with mean age of 16years were purposively sampled and the results indicated 43.2% (N=82) prevalence with forced view of pornographic content as the highest form of non-contact sexual abuse. Kissing and being touched against will were the most reported forms of contact sexual abuse. A deliberate nation-wide survey: community-based education, as well as policies that deter perpetrators and foster prevention and intervention are recommended if the SDGs must be achieved.