BLESSING ADIEME

This study examined the impact of child abuse on the academic success of secondary school students in Ekosodin Community, Edo State, Nigeria. Child abuse remains a pervasive social problem that affects children’s physical, emotional, psychological, and educational development. The study focused on various forms of abuse, including physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and neglect, and investigated how these experiences influence students’ academic performance. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and data were collected from students in selected secondary schools within the community. Findings revealed that child abuse significantly contributes to poor academic outcomes among students. Specifically, educational and social neglect were found to be strong predictors of low academic performance, with educational neglect exerting the most pronounced effect. Students who experienced abuse and neglect demonstrated difficulties in concentration, classroom participation, and academic achievement, often accompanied by psychological challenges such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and behavioral problems. The study concludes that child abuse poses a major obstacle to educational attainment and overall child development. It recommends increased parental awareness, effective enforcement of child protection laws, strengthened school counseling services, and collaborative efforts among families, schools, and government agencies to prevent child abuse and promote students’ academic success.