Studies evaluated in this review report significant improvements in knowledge measures and protective behaviours. Results might have differed had the true ICCs from studies been available or cluster-adjusted results been available. Several studies reported harms, suggesting a need to monitor the impact of similar interventions. Retention of knowledge should be measured beyond 3-12 months. Further investigation of the best forms of presentation and optimal age of programme delivery is required.
Evaluation of a brief intervention for educating school children in awareness of physical and sexual abuse.
The development and evaluation of procedures for imparting information to children regarding inappropriate treatment by adults is a challenging task that warrants increased methodological sophistication. The present study was conducted to evaluate proximal changes in fourth and fifth graders' knowledge and attitudes of physical and sexual abuse following brief skits and focal discussion in the classroom. The study used a control group of children that did not receive the intervention, which permitted a more accurate understanding of the program's effectiveness. Relative to controls, children who received the program showed an overall increase in knowledge of correct actions to take in the event of potential or actual abuse. Limitations of the study, as well as suggestions for broadening the scope and impact of child abuse prevention programs for children are discussed in relation to these findings.