Parental Engagement and Protective Mechanisms in Preventing Child Sexual Abuse

Child sexual abuse has emerged as one of the social and public health challenges worldwide, with increasing statistics across different societies. In Nigeria, reported cases continue to rise, reflecting both heightened awareness and persistent vulnerabilities within family and community structures. This paper critically examines the roles parents can play in preventing and curbing sexual abuse. It provides a detailed conceptual clarification of child sexual abuse, explores their causes, signs, and psychosocial consequences, and reviews documented cases within the Nigerian context. Emphasis is placed on parental responsibility as a primary line of defense against abuse. The paper further outlines multidimensional strategies—including relational, psychological, educational, and technological approaches—that parents can adopt to protect children, promote healthy development, and ensure early detection and intervention. The study concludes with recommendations aimed at strengthening parental capacity, improving reporting mechanisms, and enhancing child protection systems.