Experience of Child Online Abuse among Secondary School students: the case of Selected Private Secondary School in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Date
2024-10-01
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The rapid growth of the internet has revolutionized the way children interact and learn. However,
this digitalization has also brought about new risks and challenges, particularly in the form of
child online abuse. The purpose of this study is to explore the experience of child online abuse
among secondary school students in Ethiopia, investigating the risks and opportunities associated
with children's online activity, identify the different types of child online abuse, and examine
potential intervention strategies to ensure the safety of children from online abuse. A qualitative
research approach was adopted using non-probability purposive sampling. In-depth interview and
key informant interview were conducted with 15 participants and the data was analyzed using
thematic analysis. The study findings revealed that high school students in Ethiopia have
experienced various forms of child online abuse, including cyber bullying and exposure to
inappropriate content. Participants also highlighted the risks and opportunities associated with
their online activities, as well as the diverse manifestations of child online abuse. Emerging themes
suggested the need for comprehensive strategies to address these challenges, including enhancing
digital literacy, strengthening child protection policies, and fostering multi-stakeholder
collaboration. The insights gained from this study have significant implications for social work
practice. Social workers can play a pivotal role in advocating for policy changes, developing
educational programs, and collaborating with key stakeholders to create a safer online
environment for children. By addressing the multifaceted challenges of child online abuse, social
workers can contribute to the holistic well-being and protection of children in the digital age.
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Keywords
The rapid growth of the internet, experience of child