In the recent months and days, we have been witnessing a depressing phenomenon of child abuse in different forms. This has been constantly troubling my mind - not just because I am a mother myself, but also because it is so shameful and humiliating.
I read somewhere that a study in India showed that 2 out of 3 children are physically abused. Both boys are girls are victims. If this is true, then it is certainly alarming.
The disturbing fact is that in most cases, it is the care-takers who become the abusers. It is also shameful that extended family members also commit the crime.
Children abused by family members keep the secret to themselves out of fear and it is later they tell their friends. Sadly, mothers do all they can to console their children, but precious little to bring it out in the open.
The responsibility of protecting the children lies with the parent first. Parents must remember that it leaves a deep scar on the psychic of a child and has the potential of deeply affecting the children's emotional and mental development. Sexual abuse has immediate as well as long-term effect on the child, from emotional, behaviourial and physchologial disorders.
Child sexual abuse is one of the most atrocious crimes imaginable - it is an appaling violation of trust, and breach of our commitment and responsibility to protect children.
Parents need to talk to the children openly and educate them about such offenses. Children must be comfortable in speaking to their parents if they are subject to any such offense. When children are encouraged to trust their parents and openly discuss such matters, it is easier to find a solution. Otherwise, it leaves a deep wound in the mind of the child which may never ever fade away.
If you come across any child who needs help, please contact Childline www.childlineindia.org. Childline is India's first 24 hour, free, emergency phone outreach service for children in need of care and protection. Dial 1098 to access the service.
There are several books which parents can use as a tool to educate children about child abuse. One book I came across is a book titled Good Touch Bad Touch - by Teresa Connor. It helps the reader know the difference between proper and improper touches. Here is the link to the book http://www.amazon.com/Good-
Children have every right to live in a safe and secure environment. Let us do everything possible in our capacity to ensure that their dignity is respected.
Cheers
I read somewhere that a study in India showed that 2 out of 3 children are physically abused. Both boys are girls are victims. If this is true, then it is certainly alarming.
The disturbing fact is that in most cases, it is the care-takers who become the abusers. It is also shameful that extended family members also commit the crime.
Children abused by family members keep the secret to themselves out of fear and it is later they tell their friends. Sadly, mothers do all they can to console their children, but precious little to bring it out in the open.
The responsibility of protecting the children lies with the parent first. Parents must remember that it leaves a deep scar on the psychic of a child and has the potential of deeply affecting the children's emotional and mental development. Sexual abuse has immediate as well as long-term effect on the child, from emotional, behaviourial and physchologial disorders.
Child sexual abuse is one of the most atrocious crimes imaginable - it is an appaling violation of trust, and breach of our commitment and responsibility to protect children.
Parents need to talk to the children openly and educate them about such offenses. Children must be comfortable in speaking to their parents if they are subject to any such offense. When children are encouraged to trust their parents and openly discuss such matters, it is easier to find a solution. Otherwise, it leaves a deep wound in the mind of the child which may never ever fade away.
If you come across any child who needs help, please contact Childline www.childlineindia.org. Childline is India's first 24 hour, free, emergency phone outreach service for children in need of care and protection. Dial 1098 to access the service.
There are several books which parents can use as a tool to educate children about child abuse. One book I came across is a book titled Good Touch Bad Touch - by Teresa Connor. It helps the reader know the difference between proper and improper touches. Here is the link to the book http://www.amazon.com/Good-
Children have every right to live in a safe and secure environment. Let us do everything possible in our capacity to ensure that their dignity is respected.
Cheers
