Parents' attitudes and perceptions of child rights in Makadara division, Nairobi

Abstract

This study sought to investigate parents' perceptions and attitudes on child rights by assessing their knowledge and awareness on the same. The justification for the study is that children are vulnerable and dependent on their parents. Still, most efforts have concentrated on raising awareness with little focus on attitudes and perceptions. The study was carried out at Mukuyu Nyayo location, Makadara Division of Nairobi. The area was selected as its population cuts across all social categories. The key objectives of the study were to investigate the parents' attitudes towards child rights as embraced in CRC and the Chidlren's Act 2001. The respondents' level of awareness/knowledge of child rights was assessed; so was the way parents treat their children. The study also sought to find out factors that influence the realization of child rights. The survey method was employed in the study. The targeted study sample was 120respondents. Out of these, 112 were reached, thus achieving a 93.3 percent response rate. The questionnaires were administered by the researcher assisted by two research assistants. Major findings indicate that although parents exhibit favorable attitudes towards the fundamental rights of their children, they also feel that the law is too . ambitious on guaranteeing the children right to be heard. Among other major findings in this study is that the knowledge level of parents regarding children rights is low. Most of them have not heard, leave alone reading child rights legal instruments such as the Children's Acts 2001. Data elicited reveals that financial pressure impacts negatively on realization of children rights, coupled with ignorance and certain traditional practices by the parents. The study positively shows that in as much as current attention of the public is predominantly occupied with problems of child resulting from poverty, little can be achieved in regard to popularizing the Children's Bill. Based on the findings, the study recommends an well-coordinated Information, Education,Communication (LE.C)strategy at all levels. Time should also be set aside to inform and educate all stakeholders on the laws relating to children rights in Kenya.