The relationship between the quality of parenting skills and the vulnerability of children to sexual abuse

Abstract

Children are vulnerable to sexual abuse while under the care and custody of their parents or caregivers for a number of reasons. Very often people ask the question of how does it happens that a child is been sexually abused in the care of responsible people and not protected against it. The vulnerability of children to be sexually abused can be minimised by caring and protective parents who are able to ensure that their children’s emotional needs, is been met. On the other hand children’s vulnerability to sexual abuse, can be increased by parents who are not emotional available or able to nurture their children. The goal of this study was to explore the relation between the quality of parenting skills and the vulnerability of children to sexual abuse. The researcher conducted a qualitative study through which the goal of this study is been achieved. Further research in this field is recommended to prevent sexual abuse of children.