Child Abuse and Child Neglect

ParentingMrs. Stull

://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jrBCiXqv1HU

Child Abuse and Child NeglectChild Abuse is intentional or neglectful

physical, emotional, or sexual injury to a child.

Child Neglect is failure to meet a child’s basic physical and emotional needs.

According to the National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect, abuse and neglect occur among people in all income and education levels, racial and ethnic groups, religions, and areas of the country.

Physical AbuseThis includes non-accidental injuries, such as

bruises, burns and broken bonesSome common signs to look out for:

Unexplained or repeated injuries such as welts, bruises, or burns.

Injuries that are in a shape of an objectInjuries not likely to happen given the age or

ability of the childFearful behaviorUnreasonable explanation of the injury

Emotional AbuseThis includes severe rejection, loss of

affection, and humiliation. It also includes actions intended to produce fear or extreme guilt in a child.

Some signs to look for are:Aggressive or withdrawn behaviorShying away from physical contact with

parents or adultsAfraid to go home

Sexual AbuseThis includes any sexual act between a child

and an adult.Some signs to look out for:

Child tells you he/she was sexually mistreatedDifficulty walking or sittingChild has behavioral and emotional signsDifficulty eating or sleepingExcessive crying or sadnessTalking about or acting out sexual acts beyond

normal sex play for age.Withdrawing from activities and others

Why Does Abuse Occur?There is NO ACCEPTABLE reason for parents

or others to commit child abuse or neglect. However, there are some reversible factors that sometimes lead to child abuse and neglect:May think that physical abuse is an acceptable

form of discipline and guidance for children.May let anger and frustration get out of

control.Drug or alcohol use plays a role in many

reported cases of child abuse

Reporting Child Abuse and NeglectIf you suspect that child is being abused or

neglected, it is YOUR responsibility to contact your legal protective services agency, police, or emergency hotline.You do not have to give your name when you

callThe child’s safety is of prime importance.

Preventing Child Abuse and NeglectCrisis Intervention- In many local communities,

local agencies operate child abuse or domestic violence hotlines that can be called day or night.

Support- Anger management classes, substance abuse classes and support groups, local support groups for new parents, and online parenting support groups found on the internet

Education- Reading practical books written by parenting experts, taking parenting classes, consulting web sites, or asking for advice from experienced parents.

Shaken Baby SyndromeShaken baby syndrome is a pattern or severe head

injuries an infant or child can suffer when shaken violently.

The long-term consequences can include permanent disability or deathForcefully shaking a baby for even a few seconds is long

enough to cause damage.Signs of brain damage may include a change in

behavior, lethargy, loss of consciousness, pale or bluish skin, vomiting, and seizures

Immediate emergency treatment is necessary. However, once the injury has occurred, the damage is already done.

Stressors Associated With the ChildUnwanted childA child that is differentHandicappedCrying, irritable childHyperactive childA child that reminds the parent or someone

they do not likeA low birth-weight child

Stressors Associated With the ParentAbused as a child (25-35% abuse their own children,

compared to 5% of parents who were not abused)Single parentSpouse in gone much of the timeDivorceAlcohol or drugsLow self-esteemIsolationHusband uninvolved and criticalEmotional immaturityPostpartum depression

Abused Parents Can Become Non-Abusive Parents if:They had one loving and supportive parent or

foster parentThey have a positive relationship with their

spouseThey have fewer stressful life eventsThey are aware that their childhood

treatment was abusive, resolve not to repeat it, and actively pursue alternative non-abusive child guidance methods