What is Child Abuse?
Child abuse is the ill-treatment of children by adults or older children.
There are several types of child
abuse. These include:
Neglect
Emotional Abuse
Physical Abuse
Sexual Abuse
Neglect:
The failure , intentional or unintentional, of parents or guardians
to provide food, shelter, clothing, health
care, education, love and/or nurturing to a child.
Some Signs of Neglect:
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Some Behaviours of a Neglected Child:
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Unkempt appearance
Lack of medical or dental care
Poor hygiene
Abandonment
Consistent hunger
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Begs for food
Steals
Lack of interest
Tired and listless
Passive or aggressive
Poor attendance at school
Rocking
Isolation
Depression
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Emotional Abuse:
The repeated rejection and humiliation of a child, constant negative
communication, withholding of love
and affection and the ultimate destruction of the child's self-esteem.
Some Signs of Emotional Abuse:
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Some Behaviours of an Emotionally Abused Child: |
Physical problems resulting from stress
Poor performance at school
Low self-esteem
Low confidence
Constantly putting self down
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Depression
Excessively passive or aggressive
Sleep problems
Slow development
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Physical Abuse:
The intentional physical injury or pattern of injuries caused by a parent,
guardian or caregiver.
Some Signs of Physical Abuse:
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Some Behaviours of a Physically Abused Child:
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Unexplained bruises
Burns
Fractures
Other injuries
Hiding or lying about injuries
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Afraid and timid
Afraid to go home
Resists physical contact
Violent to others or self
Lack of trust
Depression
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Keeping Your Child Safe:
What every child should hear:
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I'm so lucky to have you
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You're a great helper
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I like it when you try hard
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Let's talk about it
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I'm sorry
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You're very special to me
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Thank you for your help
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I love you
For parents, If you experience any of the following, please seek
help