Assess the effects of domestic violence on child development in Buliisa district. a case study of Kigwera sub county.

Abstract

This research was focused on the Assessment of the effects of domestic violence on child development in Buliisa district, a case study of Kigwera Sub County. The research was conducted under the following objectives: i. To establish the effects of domestic violence on child development in Buliisa District ii. To examine extent of the effects of domestic violence on child development in Buliisa District. iii. To come out with possible solutions to address the effects of domestic violence in Buliisa District. The study employed both qualitative and quantitative approaches and used a sample size of 40 respondents who included children, women, men, police officers, local leaders and Non governmental organization representatives. Data collection methods employed included close ended and open ended questionnaires, interviews, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Major findings of the study established that children who witnessed domestic violence in their lives showed signs of bedwetting, fear, malnourished, aggressiveness, isolation, dirty and disorganized in addition to poor performance at school. Basing on the findings, the study recommends that mass education on the dangers of domestic violence to children and families, legislation against domestic violence, frequent visits by all stakeholders to the sub county for continuance situation assessment, setting up rehabilitation centres for victims and perpetrators, availing funds for anti-domestic violence campaigns and drives among others.