This study investigated the factors contributing to children's conflicts with their parents, the causes of parental punishment, and the reasons for such punishment during Ghana's three-week COVID-19 lockdown. Using a cross-sectional mixed-methods approach with 385 children (aged 10-17) in Accra and Tema, the study found that 58% experienced parental conflict during the lockdown, with older and female children reporting higher rates. Parental punishment was administered to 20% of children. The pandemic's economic hardship significantly contributed to increased punishment. The study recommends implementing extensive family support and psychosocial measures to prevent child abuse during future lockdowns.

Sylvester Kyei-Gyamfi, Frank Kyei-Arthur