Physical and Sexual Abuse among Mental Health Service Users at Amanuael Mental Specialized and Eka-Kotebe General Hospitals
No Thumbnail Available
Date
2023-06
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The purpose of this qualitative exploratory study was to investigate the experiences of
physical and sexual abuse among mental health service users at Amanuael Mental
Specialized and Eka Kotebe General Hospital. Data was collected through face-to-face
interviews with seventeen participants purposively selected due to their experiences of
physical and sexual abuse, as well as staff members who witnessed such abuses. Thematic
analysis was used to identify key themes from the audio recordings of the interviews, which
were translated into Amharic and then English. The study found that all participants reported
experiencing physical and sexual abuse within the studied setting. The most common forms
of physical abuse were beatings, while sexual abuse took the form of rape committed by
employees. The abuse occurred within wards, toilets, and round rooms. The short- and longterm
consequences of the abuse included dissatisfaction with the service, psychological
distress, and fear of acceptance. The findings highlight that physical and sexual abuse is
prevalent among mental health service users and has a significant impact on their well-being.
To prevent future incidents, the study recommends installing cameras in all rooms and near
examination rooms. However, it is important to address the root causes of abuse within
mental health settings to ensure the safety and well-being of service users. Mental health
providers must prioritize the prevention of abuse and maltreatment, and take steps to create a
safe and supportive environment for their service users.
Key word: Sexual abuse, physical abuse, service users.
Description
Keywords
Sexual abuse, physical abuse, service users.