The Role of Television Drama in Reinforcing Social Awareness and Breaking the Silence on Child Sexual Harassment: A Case Study of the Series Lam Shamsiya and an Analysis of Child Harassment Incidents in the Contemporary Egyptian Context

Sayed, Eman Ashour

doi:10.21608/jsb.2025.414748.1965

The Role of Television Drama in Reinforcing Social Awareness and Breaking the Silence on Child Sexual Harassment: A Case Study of the Series Lam Shamsiya and an Analysis of Child Harassment Incidents in the Contemporary Egyptian Context

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Eman ashour Sayed

Mina university.

10.21608/jsb.2025.414748.1965

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between television drama and reinforcing social awareness and breaking the silence surrounding child sexual harassment, considering documented incidents within Egyptian society. The author used a questionnaire on a sample of 526 parents (Mothers = 356, 67.7%, and Fathers = 170, 32.3%), and the content analysis form for the Lam Shamsiya series (15 episodes). Findings revealed several critical insights. Among the most significant challenges faced by parents in seeking justice for victims was their reluctance to disclose incidents involving their children, primarily due to social stigma, difficulties in proving the assault and gathering evidence, and cultural norms of shame, embarrassment, and fear of scandal. Most participants agreed that the issue is prevalent within society, while a minority perceived it as less widespread. Statistically significant differences were found between fathers and mothers regarding the perceived role of drama in addressing harassment, favoring females. Furthermore, respondents recommended enhancing the role of drama in confronting child harassment by emphasizing methods of protection and prevention.

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