Asian Journal of Research in Social Sciences and Humanities
  • Year: 2015
  • Volume: 5
  • Issue: 7

Child Abuse and its Prevalence in Urban Kashmir

Department of Social Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India

Online published on 6 July, 2015.

Abstract

The present study on prevalence of child abuse in urban Kashmir was undertaken by a team of postgraduates students of the Department of Sociology, University of Kashmir in 2013. Relevant information was collected from a sample of 120 families drawn fro three localities of urban Kashmir. The information was analysed in relation to family background, social environment and family relationship bearing upon child health. It was observed that nuclear type families were common in the area. Nearly half of the families depended on governmental employment for income, the other half depended on private occupation of various types. Regarding indicators of family environment, majority of the families dined together at least once a day; watched television programmes in each other's company; and permitted children to participate in festive occasions. While the relationship between parents and children was negative in majority of the families, it was mostly positive in between children. It is felt that a balance socioeconomic development that eliminates poverty and destitution as also elevates the standard of living can eradicate the evils of child abuse, child neglect and child labour to a considerable extent. A socioeconomic development conducive to child health is the one that is adequately supplemented by relevant educational and legal measures.