Exploring the response of the religious leaders towards child abuse in eThekwini Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal.
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Date
2021
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Abstract
Child abuse is considered as a societal problem. Globally, studies have shown a high rate of child
abuse in communities. However, very little is known is social science research about the response
of religious leaders towards child abuse. This study aimed to understand the response of religious
leaders towards child abuse in eThekwini Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal.
The study used the ecological systems theory as a theoretical framework to understand the extent
of child abuse as a societal problem influenced by different environmental factors and church
leaders’ experiences in managing and dealing with child abuse cases.
This qualitative study included twelve church leaders from different denominations selected
through a purposive sampling technique. Data were collected through semi-structured individual
interviews, which were audio-recorded and later transcribed. The thematic analysis method was
used to analyse the data.
The study findings showed that child abuse is a pandemic in communities. The socio-economic
circumstances such as substance abuse, parental/caregiver mental health, and cultural beliefs are
key contributors to the abuse of children. The participants reported sexual and emotional abuse as
the highest cases they deal with in communities.
Despite South African legislation that protects and promotes children's rights, the participants
reported that many child abuse cases are not reported to authorities. Lack of knowledge about the
reporting procedures, the child's safety after reporting, and the safety of the church leaders were
reported as major challenges in reporting child abuse cases.
Findings revealed that church leaders play a critical role in managing child abuse cases. They offer
social, spiritual, and child and family support. Some of the churches’ leaders provide ongoing life
skills programs for youth to help them cope with everyday challenges.
The findings highlight the religious community's critical challenges in fulfilling the mandate of
the Children’s Act of mandatory reporting of child abuse cases in communities. These challenges
impact child protection responses. Despite these challenges, the religious sector offers a wide range
of preventive and family interventions in communities that strengthen children's support.
Description
Masters Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.