It seems like every time I log on the Internet, I see child abuse articles. They break my heart, and I can't begin to understand how anyone can abuse a child. But I also wonder how it stays hidden — often for a long time. What can we learn from these articles to help ensure that it doesn't happen again?
When you think about child abuse, broken bones and bruises most likely come to mind. But abuse isn't always physical. Emotional abuse and neglect are also very harmful, and they are harder for an outsider to see. Children are afraid of more abuse, so they don't tell a trusted adult that bad things are happening at home. Or worse, the child may not know that the treatment they suffer is, in fact, abuse.
Many parents don't mean to abuse their child. Parenting is a skill that's taught — and a parent is likely to treat their kids in the same way their own parents did. They don't intentionally verbally abuse or neglect their children, but it happens. A parent's own mental health issues and drug abuse can also lead to some cases of child abuse. By helping adults deal with their personal issues, we can in turn help their children.
Often, a child knows his or her abuser well — it may be a parent, a close relative, or a close family friend. The abuser gains the child's trust and then starts the abuse. By the time the child or those close to him realize that abuse is happening, it's probably been going on for some time.
Be aware of the signs of abuse, and watch for them in your children and their friends. Unfortunately, remember that the signs of child abuse don't always mean there is abuse. A child may be exhibiting similar behaviors but because he's experiencing stress about something else. If you do notice signs of abuse, look for patterns and dig for more information. Call the authorities if you strongly suspect child abuse — you could save a child from being another victim. Let's work together to reduce the number of child abuse articles appearing in the news.
What else do you think we can do to help prevent child abuse? Share below in the comments section!
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