Effect of an educational intervention on knowledge, attitude, and self-efficacy of child sexual abuse prevention among parents in Ogun State, Nigeria

Background: Parents' efforts are essential in the prevention of Child Sexual Abuse, as studies consistently underscore their critical roles in protecting and providing a safe place for their children. This study highlights the pivotal role of parents in preventing child sexual abuse, as research consistently emphasizes their responsibility in safeguarding their children and creating a secure environment. However, despite their critical role, studies indicate that parents often lack sufficient knowledge, exhibit poor attitudes, and demonstrate low self-efficacy regarding child sexual abuse prevention, contributing to higher child sexual abuse incidence. To address this gap, the study investigated the effect of an educational intervention on parents' knowledge, attitudes, and self-efficacy related to child sexual abuse prevention in Ogun State, Nigeria. Method: A quasi-experimental design was conducted in two selected Junior Secondary Schools in Yewa South and Abeokuta South Local Government Areas, Ogun State, Nigeria. It involved an intervention group and a control group with a sample size of 249 selected by a systematic random sample. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire. Assessments were conducted at baseline [P0], four weeks post-intervention [P1], and twelve weeks post-intervention [P2]. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics at a 0.05 significance level. Results: Results revealed significant improvements [p < 0.05] in knowledge, attitudes, and self-efficacy were observed in the intervention group post-intervention. The Cohen's D effect size for knowledge, attitude, and self-efficacy of child sexual abuse prevention were 0.27, 0.54, and 0.57, respectively. Conclusion: The study demonstrated the efficacy of the educational intervention in improving parents' knowledge, attitudes, and self-efficacy regarding child sexual abuse prevention. It is recommended that educational interventions be widely implemented to raise awareness and empower parents to effectively prevent child sexual abuse in their communities.