A Mix Method Approach to Study the Effect of Touch on Self-identity
摘要
One in 9 girls and one in 53 boys are abused sexually before the age of 18 years. A negative impact created on a child’s health and well-being because of such experiences can lead to lifetime trauma. The paper primarily discusses the root causes of traumas based on touch and their impact on one’s personality using semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and experience visual representation (total n = 15) for qualitative research. Significant findings involve gender-biased stereotypes, societal notions, and gaps in early education and communication between victims, parents, and educators, leading to a lack of awareness and an inability to react to a situation in early childhood. Based on the findings, a follow-up study was conducted using online surveys with the samples (n = 18) and their parents (n = 21) to analyze the communication gap regarding ‘good’ and ‘bad’ touch and found that parents’ lack of awareness and lack of a suitable method of communication around the topic prevents children from opening up about negative experiences, often leading to trauma. To address this, a design solution is explored in the form of an educational activity kit for children (age 8–13 years) that focuses on using correct terminologies, boundaries, and appropriate reactions in a situation for an academic setting to promote healthy conversation and early education on the topic. Age-appropriate and engaging activities encourage children to get comfortable with the topic in a supportive environment. To evaluate its efficacy, user testing at a pilot stage was conducted on three children.