Child_Abuse

Educating Parents about the potential consequences of child abuse Volume 1, Issue 1 May 2010 Effects of Child Abuse Some effects are long term after recovering from physical abuse; children are left with an emotional and psychological trauma that can last for the rest of their lives. Children who were once abused as a child and now an adult, they are more likely to abuse drugs, and alcohol, commit violent crimes. Adults may form unhealthy relationships, and even abuse their own children. There are many bystanders who witness child abuse and do nothing to stop it. Neighbors and friends may hear or even see a child being abused but don’t want to intrude or interfere with “the rights” of the parents. In a way I believe that they people who don’t try to help or stop the abuse are contributing to prolonging the pain and heartbreak for children who cannot get out of a bad situation. http://charityguide.org/volunteer/fifteen/child-abuse.htm Types of Child Abuse * Physical Abuse- characterized by the infliction of physical injury as a result of punching, beating, kicking, biting, burning, shaking, or otherwise harming a child. * Child Neglect- is characterized by failure to provide for the child’s basic needs. Examples can be physical (abandonment), educational (allowing, chronic truancy), or emotional. * Sexual Abuse- includes fondling a child’s genitals, intercourse, incest, rape and sodomy. * Emotional Abuse- injury to the psychological capacity or emotional stability of the child. http://www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/define.cfm Ten Ways to Help Prevent Child Abuse Be a nurturing parent. Children need to know that they are special, loved and capable of following their dreams. Help a friend, neighbor or relative. Being a parent isn’t easy. Offer a helping hand take care of the children, so the parents can rest or spend time together. Help yourself. When the big and little problems of your everyday life pile up to the point you feel overwhelmed and out of control, take a time out. Don’t take it out on your child. If your baby cries… It can be frustrating to hear your baby cry. Learn what to do if your baby won’t stop crying. Never shake a baby – shaking a child may result in severe injury or death. Get involved. Ask your community leaders, clergy, library and schools to develop services to meet the needs of healthy children and family. Help to develop parenting resources at your local library. Promote programs in school. Teaching children, parents and teachers prevention strategies can help to keep children safe. Monitor your child’s television and video viewing. Watching violent films and TV programs can harm young children. Volunteer at local child abuse prevention program. For information about volunteer opportunities, call 1-800-Children. Report suspected abuse or neglect. If you have reason to believe a child has been or may be harmed, call your local department of children and family services or your local police department. continued from page 1 continued from page 1 |