Exploration of the effectiveness of child protection systems in preventing teen pregnancy: a case study of Dar es salaam region
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Date
2016
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
Hubert Kairuki Memorial University
Abstract
The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions of child protection stakeholders on the effectiveness of child protection systems in preventing teen pregnancy. To put the study into right context, three specific objectives were famed which were: to examine child protection stakeholders' understanding of Child Protection, to assess child protection stakeholders' understanding regarding teenage pregnancy, and to find out if there are gaps in the child protection systems which may contribute to teenage. In terms of methodology, both, primary and secondary data were collected. Primary data was collected through focus group discussions, interviews and consultative meetings. The respondents were selected purposeful on the basis of their power to participate in matters related to child rights violations and their consequences. NGOs dealing with vulnerable children were also contacted. Secondary data were collected from various documentary sources such as the Child Development Policy of 1996 and the Child Act of 2009. Other documents include scientific books, journals, reports and articles. The findings showed that the majority of the respondents (41%) had not heard about the term "Child protection", while 36% were not sure. Only 23% of the respondents had heard about the term child protection. Many teenagers fall pregnant due to poverty (67%); and teenagers engaging in early sex (79%); teenagers engaging in early sex (79%). Lack of substance abuse assessment and treatment (65%), limited counseling services (77%) were also some of the gaps identified. As a matter of recommendations, it was recommended to conduct knowledge awareness campaigns on child protection specially among key stakeholders so as to equip them with enough knowledge and skills in order to fight child abuse.
Description
A dissertation submitted in partial fullfillment of the requirements for master of social work of Hubert Kairuki Memorial University Dar es salaam, Tanzania
Keywords
Child protection, Teen pregnancy, Dar es Salaam
Citation
Katende, E. S., 2016. Exploration of the effectiveness of child protection systems in preventing teen pregnancy: a case study of Dar es salaam region. HKMU