Barriers that Prevent Teachers from Reporting Suspected Cases of Child ‎Maltreatment in Elementary‎ Schools at Mosul City /Iraq

Abstract

Aim of the study: the study aim to identifying the barriers that prevent teachers of reporting suspected cases of child maltreatment in elementary schools at Mosul city.

Methodology: A descriptive study design was chosen to fulfill the objectives of this research which was conducted in sixty elementary schools inside of Mosul city/Iraq during the period of 1 October 2019 till 30 May 2020. The study sample consists of (60) elementary schools teachers was selected by non- probability (Purposive) sample of (60) schools inside Mosul city. The questionnaire data was filled by the teachers in a face-to-face direct interview. Statistical processing was conducted by the use of version 25 SPSS statistical package.

Results: The results showed participants’ barriers to reporting suspected cases of child maltreatment in schools. (55.0%) of the study sample stated, 'Unwillingness to intervene by the teachers'. The most common barriers are lack of knowledge and training on child maltreatment by (76.7) of the study sample.

Conclusion: Need for enhancing teacher’s knowledge because the most common barrier to report child maltreatment is lack of knowledge and training.

Recommendations: The researchers recommend design and implement different educational programs for teachers' concerning child maltreatment to promote child health and development.