Facing Child Abuse

Recognizing signs of Abuse

by Dr. Charles Sophy

Statistics on child abuse are quite alarming, estimating that one in four children will experience some type of abuse. Over the past ten years, child abuse numbers have steadily increased, with over one million victims each year. Our society is faced with a major problem that cannot be ignored. Something needs to be done.

What exactly is child abuse? Abuse is qualified as any critical injury, sexual abuse or emotional abuse inflicted on a child in non-accidental ways. Neglect also falls under child abuse when a caregiver fails to give children necessary and reasonable nutrition, medical support, education, or any other care that is required for that child's wellbeing. Caregivers range from parents, legal guardians and household staff to teachers, coaches and anyone who has responsibility for a child.

Often child abuse is not apparent to the naked eye, and remains so until the child tells us, either verbally or nonverbally. Heightened awareness of a child's behavior is necessary because changes in their behavior may be a first sign. Aggression, disruption and self-destruction are clearly signs of some internal conflict. Decompensation in major life areas such as sleep, academic performance, eating, and socialization or inappropriately sexual behavior should lead a parent or caregiver on a path to decipher the basis of this change. Early identification and treatment is key to minimizing any long-term outcomes. It is important to not let these things go unnoticed.

Children who have been sexually abused may use inappropriate language, act out sexually at school or at home, and tend to chronically harass others in a sexual manner, such as acting attentive to younger children to an uncomfortable level. Children who have possibly been sexually abused need to be tested and treated for sexually-transmitted diseases.

Identifying children who may have been abused helps children in need connect to treatment and helps deter potential future attacks. Sharing the facts on child abuse, raising public awareness of this crisis, and keeping in mind the key factors that may identify perpetrators all have a significant impact on child abuse prevention.

Adults who may raise suspicion will, at times, try to engage children to spend "alone time" with them, even though these children don't know them very well. Someone taking photographs of strangers' children is a significant red flag. And, teachers, coaches, or any other service providers who seemingly promote intense one-on-one relationships with a child should raise wariness.

When dealing with child abuse, the following is a guideline:

1.Always treat the child in a blame-free manner.

2.Always assure the child that they did the right thing in disclosing.

3.Always ensure the child's safety.

4.Always take it seriously.

5. Report any suspicion of child abuse.

Children should be able to live freely without risk of an attack. We all have the moral responsibility to take steps to eradicate child abuse. By educating ourselves on child abuse and its many characteristics, we are sparing a child somewhere an experience that no child should undergo.