Curbing the Child Abuse #Sabir Gondal (PGC ALI Pur)

It is rightly said “ Justice delayed is justice denied”

Also positively asserted :

“Injustice any where is a threat to justice everywhere ”

A child is a future of any nation. And the unhealthy treatment of these angels is not tolerable in any
civilization in human history. But above quoted sayings have become true to our child rape and
killings in Pakistan. Children in Pakistan are being maltreated and mercilessly raped and killed. But
they need justice in any case. Violence is not inevitable. It is possible to break the cycle of violence
against children. It is our moral and human right imperative to act now. We can prevent violence if
we start today.

Child abuse is defined as,

Any recent act or failure to act on the part of a parent or caretaker, which results in death, serious physical or
emotional harm, sexual abuse or exploitation or an act or failure to act which presents an immense risk of
serious harm.
Negligence is a failure to meet the child's basic needs e.g. not providing enough food, shelter or basic
supervision, necessary medical or mental health treatment, adequate education or emotional comfort. Physical
abuse refers to injury of a child on a purpose e.g. striking, kicking, beating or any action that leads to physical
injury. Sexual abuse is the use, persuasion, or forcing a child to engage in sexual acts or invitation of such acts.
Abuse and neglect of children occurs in families from all walks of life, of all incomes religions and ethnicities.
There is no single cause of child maltreatment, rather it occurs as a result of many forces working together to
impact the family.
Four types of abuse have been observed by so for;
1- Physical abuse (rape, molestation, child pornography)
2- Sexual child abuse
3- Neglect (physical neglect, educational neglect)
4- Emotional abuse ( verbal, mental, psychological)
• How can violence against children be prevented;
1- Reducing unintended pregnancies.
2- Reducing harmful level of illicit drug use during pregnancy.
3- Reducing harmful level of alcohol and illicit drug use by new parents.
4- Improve access to high quality pre and post birth services.
Research shows that parents and caregivers who have support from family, friends, neighbours, and their
communities are more likely to provide safe and healthy homes for their children. When parents lack their
support and feel isolated. They may be more likely to make poor decisions that can lead to neglect or abuse.
The concerned citizens and organizations are realizing that the best way to prevent child abuse is to help parents
develop the skills and identify the resources. They need to understand and meet their children's emotional,
physical, and developmental needs and protect their children from harm.
Every child has the right to live free from violence. They yet far too many remain chained to circumstance.It
makes their parents unbearable. Policy makers and decision makers have exponential power to transform there
circumstance.
Most abused children suffer greater emotional than Physical damage. An abused child may become depressed.
He or she may withdraw, think of suicide or become violent. An older child may use drugs or alcohol, try to run
or abuse others.
Child abuse is a serious problem. It can be avoided. If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, call the
police or your local child welfare agency. Try to make your home a violence free zone. Turn off violent TV shows
and don't let kids stay under the same roof with an abusive adult. Get control of yourself before disciplining a
child. Set clear rules so the child knows what to expect.
Avoid physical punishment. Watch your words. Angry or punishing language can leave emotional scars for a
lifetime. Keep your children healthy. Denying children food, sleep or healthcare is abuse by neglect. Try to
understand your children. Learn how kids behave and what they can do at different ages. Have realistic
expectations and be reasonable if children fall short.
The factors that protect a child from risk of abuse or neglect.
• Children’s optimism, high self‐esteem, intelligence, creativity, humor, and independence, which
enhance their coping skills in the face of adversity.
• The acceptance of peers and positive influences such as teachers, mentors, and role models
• The family’s access to social supports, neighborhood stability, and access to safe schools and
adequate health care
• The child's experience of love, acceptance, positive guidance, and protection from a caring adult,
which encourages trust that their parents or caregivers will provide what they need to thrive
• Parent’s or caregiver’s respectful communication and listening, consistent rules and expectations,
and safe opportunities that promote independence
• Parents or caregivers who can cope with the stresses of everyday life and have the inner strength to
bounce back when things are not going well.
• Parents or caregivers with a social network of emotionally supportive friends, family, and neighbors
• Families who can meet their own basic needs for food, clothing, housing, and transportation and
know how to access essential services such as childcare, health care, and mental health services.

Psychologists are heavily involved in the development and implementation of prevention programs
for child abuse and neglect. Primary prevention programs raise awareness among the public, service
providers, and policymakers about the scope of issues involved in child maltreatment. Secondary
prevention programs target populations with one or more risk factors for child maltreatment.
And more so IF YOU SUSPECT SOMEONE IS ABUSING OR NEGLECTING A CHILD, TAKE ACTION and try
to do your moral duty. Sabir gondal* (PGC Alipur)