The Effects Of Domestic Violence On Children's Academic Performance In Primary Schools. A Case Study Of Makindye Sub-County Kampala District

ABSTRACT

The purpose of the study was to explore the effects of domestic violence on children ·s Academic performance in primary schools. The study was conducted in Makindye cubcounty, Kampala district.

The researcher collected dat& from parents, children and police officers, self administered questionnaires, guided interviews and observation were the basic instruments. The collected data was tabulated and analysed comparing percentage number of the respondents for the variable under investigation. The findings revealed that domestic violence is often linked to poor self- esteem. A child growing up in a violent home is likely to have little self worthy. Children in homes where domestic violence occurs are witnesses to abuse, may themselves be abused and also suffer harm "incidental" to the domestic abuse and are used by the batterer to manipulate or gain little control over the victim. Other factors included drug or alcohol abuse, loss of wage earning power and so many others. The study findings also revealed the effects of domestic violence on children as academic problems, agitation. aggression. fear of natural exploring, feelings of not belonging, general emotional distress and low self -esteem. In view of the above findings. the following conclusion can be made. If a child expresses a desire to talk. he or she should be provided with opportunity to express his or her thoughts and feelings. They should also be encouraged to write in a journal, draw or paint as these are all viable means for facilitating expression in young children. No one should be afraid to report a case of domestic violence. It is everyone· s business when someone is being abused. neighbors. teachers, doctors and clergy all need to be aware and report suspicious activities. If someone confides that they are being abused. listen with a supportive. non-judgmental ear never be afraid to contact the appropriate authorities.