Consequences and Coping Mechanisms of Child Sexual Abuse: The Case of Children Supported by Integrated Family Service Organization (IFSO) in Addis Ababa
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Date
2026-05-01
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
This study assessed the consequence and coping mechanisms of child sexual abuse participants from Integrated Family Service Organization in Addis Ababa. Child sexual abuse resulted in critical and wide-ranged consequences that affect the psychological, social, health, economic and educational well-being of children and caregivers. The study utilized a case study design using in-depth and key-informant interview with 12 purposively selected respondents of which eight were survivor and corresponding caregivers and four professional working in IFSO. The findings of participants’ interview and key-informants showed that survivor and caregivers experienced multifaceted problems including anxiety, emotional instabilities, fear, stigma, low self-esteem, discrimination, physical health complication, interrupted education, and severe financial strains. In response to these challenges, children and parents employed different coping mechanisms, including counselling, religious practice, family and community support, medical and isolation, that consequence with positive and harmful outcomes. In conclusion, child sexual abuse resulted with wide-range of psychological, social, health, economic and educational effects, whereas alternative coping strategies utilized by children and their caregivers that bring the recovery and resilience out comes. Social workers, counselors, and outreach professionals at institutions such as IFSO and similar child protection organizations and other stakeholders in Addis Ababa strengthen the provision of integrated and comprehensive intervention at the individual, family and community levels.
Keywords: Child Sexual Abuse, Effects of Abuse, Coping Mechanisms, Child Protection
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Keywords
Child Sexual Abuse, Effects of Abuse, Coping Mechanisms, Child Protection