Child Sexual Abuse in Pakistan: A Phenomenological Study on Parental Understanding and Prevention Strategies for Child Protection.

Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) is widespread and pervasive in Pakistan, presenting a significant threat to a child's physical health, psychological well-being, and overall development. This study aimed to empirically substantiate the understanding of parents regarding CSA and their utilized preventive strategies. The study utilized Social Ecological Theory to gain a deeper comprehension of the phenomenon. Data was collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews with 18 parents from Islamabad capital city, using a qualitative phenomenological research approach along with thematic analysis. Results reveal that most of the parents were highly aware of the most common aspects of sexual assault and molestation, but they were unaware of the more manipulative subtle forms such as "grooming." Additionally, they had a limited understanding of the long-term consequences of sexual abuse. While many parents knew about the option of involving the police in cases of abuse, they were unaware of helpline services and the availability of psychological support. In terms of prevention, most parents employed an integrated approach involving various preventive measures, such as educating their children about appropriate and inappropriate touch. These findings underscore the importance of implementing public-focused initiatives and community-based programs to enhance parental awareness, knowledge, and capabilities in preventing CSA in Pakistan.

Armed Conflict in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas of Pakistan and the Role of NGOs in Restoring Health Services.

The Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) of Pakistan have been a hotbed of terrorists' violence since 9/11. The unremitted armed conflict in the region and limited role of the government in delivering fundamental health services has left the people at the disposal of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). This research aims at empirically substantiating the successful strategies adopted by the NGOs to run their projects under threats and to know the perceptions of the community toward NGOs and their services. Triangulation methodology was adopted in collecting data. Based on results, the research found that health care is a highly demanded service in the study area, and the government does not have the capacity nor the resources to ensure decent health coverage for all the people of the region. NGOs indeed have a crucial role not only in building the capacity of the government and the community but also in restoring and providing health services in the region, but still many efforts are required to overcome the challenges they are facing. By implication, the research places forward some recommendations.