Assess the knowledge regarding abusive behavior in school children among primary school teachers at selected schools, Kollam district with a view to develop an information booklet

ABSTRACT Background: Numerous research studies have concluded that a complex interaction or combination of factors leads to an increased risk of violent behavior in children and adolescents. These factors can be being the victim of physical abuse and/or sexual abuse, exposure to violence in the home and/or community, being the victim of bullying, exposure to violence in media, use of drugs and/or alcohol, presence of firearms in home, combination of stressful family socioeconomic factors (poverty, severe deprivation, marital breakup, single parenting, unemployment, loss of support from extended family), brain damage from head injury etc. Understanding, identifying, guiding, influencing the children are made possible by school teachers and correction can be easy in this age. Objective: · To assess the knowledge regarding abusive behavior in school children among primary school teachers at selected schools, Kollam district · To find the association of knowledge among primary school teachers and to develop and distribute an information booklet regarding abusive behaviors in school children. Methodology: A purposive sampling technique was used to select 30 samples. The tools were demographic variables and structured knowledge questionnaire was used to assess the level of knowledge regarding abusive behavior in school children among primary school teachers. After data collection information booklet were distributed. Result: Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for analysis. The study reveals that 53.4% have average knowledge and 46.6% have poor knowledge level. There is no significant association between level of knowledge regarding abusive behavior in school children and demographic variables. Conclusion: Research was conducted on a group of 30 primary school teachers who were found to have inadequate knowledge regarding abusive behavior in school children. Since primary educational professionals are expected to have an integrated advanced knowledge and experience in monitoring, identifying, correcting and managing abusive behavior among school children and thus maintain a healthy habits and relationship among students. It can also a significant contribution to society and nation.