Factors contributing to persistence of defilement cases in Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya

Abstract

Statistics on child abuse revealed that defilement is the most common form of abuse in Kenya. This study sought to establish the factors contributing to the persistence of defilement cases in Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya. The study was guided by the following specific objectives; to examine the contribution of cultural practices to the persistence of defilement cases, to establish the effect of economic status on persistent defilement cases, to determine the effect of family structure on persistent defilement cases and to explore the effect of community response on persistent defilement cases. This study was guided by theory of the Four-Factor Traumagenic and Social Strain theory. This study used phenomenological research design. The unit of analysis for this study was victims of defilement. The target population for this study was all 98 defiled children (93 girls and 5 boys), 98 parents/caregivers, and 5 chiefs. The study adopted a census method. Three interview schedules were developed for parents/guardians of defiled children, chiefs, and defiled children. Collected data were analysed using thematic method. The study results revealed 67 (95.7%) respondents noted that circumcision for boys meant transition from childhood to adulthood. Results show 38.6% (32) of respondents noted that the community practices FGM. The results show that 15(21.4%) of respondents agreed to marry after initiation. Six (8.6%) of respondents reported being sexually harassed by drunkards at home. The unity of community stakeholders helps to control and reduce defilement. The study found that girls and boys in the community practice many sexuality and rites of passage. Homestead economic status greatly affects community child defilement. When a family cannot meet their basic needs, perpetrators take advantage of any opportunity. Lack of parental care causes child defilement. It is more open that most poor parents force girls to have sexual relations with taxi drivers, bus drivers, boda-boda riders, and others to raise money to eat. Most police and chiefs know the perpetrators of defilement cases. The study found that the Four-Factor Traumagenic and Social Strain Theory can help in reducing persistent defilement cases. The study recommends community support for child defilement prevention programs. Parents should improve their economic sources to escape poverty and meet their families' social and basic needs, including their children. Parents to teach children on their rights. Everyone in the community should help vulnerable children and their families to reduce defilement.