Can you imagine a poor innocent child constantly getting physically abused? Neither can I, but unfortunately it’s a reality and it happens every day. As a child, I received some type punishment when I disobeyed but never was I abused by anyone. Child abuse is the physical, sexual or emotional mistreatment or neglect of a child.
Approximately 5 children die every day because of child abuse. Child abuse under no circumstances is acceptable. When a child is physically abused, he or she may begin to act withdrawn, fearful, and depressed or even have low self-esteem. Child abuse leaves both physical and emotional scars with children.
I strongly believe that no individual should experience child abuse. It amazes me how some parents are quick to say our children are our future but still abuse or allows their child to be abused. If they are that important to us then why are we putting them through such horrific traumatizing times? Each year nearly a million children are determined by child protective services to have been a victim of abuse or neglect in this country. Luckily, there are steps we can take to capture the abuser.
Reporting child abuse is the only effective step to control the abuser and stop the abuse. If you see signs of child abuse, report it immediately. You can report child abuse and remain anonymous by calling the National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-422-4453. This hotline is open for calls twenty- four hours a day, seven days a week.
If child abuse is reported local authorities and the State Department of Child Welfare are usually contacted. The child will likely be carried into a medical facility for the appropriate medical examination. Afterwards, the child is usually placed in the custody of foster care until all of the legalities of the situation are resolved. If evidence is found, the abuser will be placed in police custody.
Children exposed to abuse, if left unattended or ignored, are at an increased risk for emotional and behavioral problems in the future. Children who are abused may not be able to express their feelings and as a result may develop difficulties regulating their emotions. Some possible effects on a child’s mental health include anxiety, depression, flashbacks, difficulty sleeping, or difficulty concentrating.
It is my hope that we will all report child abuse if its ever evident to us. If you ever for a second become afraid to do so, just stop and think what if it were you getting abused? Would you want to constantly get abused knowing that someone else knows but just won’t come forward to get you some help? I would think not. So if you see abuse say something.