Parental Chils Abuse, Psychological Maltreament, and Emotional Neglect as Perceived by Children According to Some Demographic Factors

Abstract

The differential effects of child abuse, psychological maltreatment, and emotional neglect on psychological functioning are not well documented in the Arabic literature. The purpose of the present study is to establish background knowledge of the problem. Second, to examine the parental styles of child abuse, psychological maltreatment, and emotional neglect toward their children. A sample of 1100 undergraduates from Kuwait University where selected for the study. A questionnaire containing 80 items was developed to measure 16th dimensions of abusive and non-abusive parental styles. The study revealed that the sex factor plays a major role in reporting types of maltreatment. Males are more willing to report psychological abuse and emotional neglect incidents than females. Further, statistical analyses results indicated that the level of parental formal education might increase the likelihood of social isolation, neglect and lack of availability toward their children. In addition, the family place of residence (governarate) generates feelings of social isolation among the subjects as well as neglect and lack of availability toward them.