TRADITION OR TRAUMA? UNCOVERING SOCIOCULTURAL DRIVERS OF CHILD ABUSE IN NANUMBA NORTH

Child abuse remains a pervasive challenge in many parts of Ghana, including the Nanumba North Municipality, where sociocultural dynamics significantly influence its prevalence. This study examines the sociocultural factors contributing to child abuse within this municipality. Data for this study were gathered using a qualitative research approach through interviews, and focus group discussions. The findings revealed that deeply ingrained cultural practices such as child fostering, early marriage, and child sexual violations, among other abusive practices, were prevalent in the municipality.The study concludes that there is an urgent need for culturally sensitive interventions that address the root causes of abuse while promoting positive parenting and chieftaincy practices, and community education. The paper also provides practical recommendations for stakeholders aimed at mitigating the impact of harmful sociocultural practices on children in the municipality and the country asa whole.