Child abuse & neglect of any kind leaves the individuals with permanent scars. Some of these scars may be physical, but emotional scarring has long-term consequences, affecting a child's sense of self, future relationships, and ability to perform at home, work, and school.
Consequences of abuse and neglect on a child are following:
Relationship issues stem from a lack of trust. Overall, who can you trust if you can't trust your parents? It’s hard to learn to trust people or know who is trustworthy without this base. This can make it difficult to maintain relationships as an adult. It can also lead to unhealthy relationships because the adult is unaware of what constitutes a healthy relationship.
Core feelings of "worthlessness." It is extremely difficult to overcome these core feelings if you were repeatedly told as a child that you are stupid or no good. Abused children may neglect their education or settle for low-paying jobs as they grow up because they do not believe they are worth more. Because of the stigma and shame associated with sexual abuse, survivors frequently experience a sense of being damaged.
Problems with emotion regulation. The kids who have been abused are unable to express their emotions with sense of security. So, as a result, emotions are suppressed and manifest in unexpected or weird ways. Adult survivors of childhood abuse may experience unexplained anxiety, depression, or rage. To numb the painful feelings, they may lean towards alcohol or drugs.
Recognizing the Various Forms of Child Abuse
Abusive behavior can take many forms, but the emotional impact on the child is the common denominator. Whether the abuse is in the form of a slap, a harsh comment, stony silence, or not knowing if dinner will be served, the end result is a child who feels unsafe, uncared for, and alone.
Emotional Exploitation
Words can hurt, and emotional abuse can seriously harm a child's mental health or social development, contrary to popular belief. Constant belittling, shaming, and humiliation are examples of emotional abuse.
- Making disparaging remarks about others and calling them names.
- Telling a child they're "bad," "worthless," or "a mistake."
- Threatening, yelling or bullying on a regular basis.
- As punishment, ignoring or rejecting a child and giving them the silent treatment.
- Limiting affectionate behavior with a child—no hugs, kisses, emotional support or other affectionate gestures.
- Introducing a child to violence against others, whether against the other parent, a sibling, or even a pet.
Neglect of Children
Neglect, a common form of child abuse, is a pattern of failing to meet a child's basic needs, such as adequate food, clothing, hygiene, or supervision.
Child neglect is not always obvious. A parent may become physically or mentally incapable of caring for a child in certain circumstances, such as serious illness or injury, or untreated depression or anxiety. At times, drug or alcohol abuse can seriously impair judgement & gives them the sense of security.
Physical Violence
It could be the result of a deliberate attempt to harm the child, or it could be the result of excessive physical punishment. Many physically abusive parents claim that their actions are simply forms of discipline aimed at teaching their children how to behave. There is a difference between physical punishments or physical abuse.
Physical abuse can be observe by following aspects:
Unpredictability- The child doesn’t have clear idea about what will irritate the parent. However, there are no clearly defined boundaries or rules. The child is constantly treading water, never knowing what behavior will result in a physical assault.
Anger is being vented- Abusive parents act out of rage and a desire to assert control, not out of a desire to teach their child lovingly. The more aggressive the parent, the more severe the abuse.
However, what children really learn is how to avoid being hit, rather than how to behave or grow as individuals.
Sexual Exploitation
Child sexual abuse is a particularly complex form of abuse due to the layers of guilt and shame involved. It is critical to recognize that sexual abuse does not always involve physical contact. Whether or not touching is involved, exposing a child to sexual situations or material is sexually abusive.
Children who have been sexually abused are frequently plagued by feelings of shame and guilt. They may suspect they are to blame for the abuse or that it was brought on by them. This can lead to self-loathing as they get older, as well as sexual and relationship issues. The shame associated with sexual abuse makes it extremely difficult for children to come forward. They may be concerned that others will not believe them, will be angry with them, or that it will cause a schism in their family. Because of these challenges, false allegations of sexual abuse are uncommon; therefore, if a child confides in you, take them seriously.
Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting
If you suspect that a child is being abused, it is critical that you report it—and that you continue to report each separate incident if it continues. Moreover, every report you write is a snapshot of what's going on in your family. The more information you can provide, the more likely the child will receive the assistance he or she requires. It's natural to have reservations or concerns about reporting child abuse but it’s needed the most. You can contact with an expert Domestic Violent Attorney in McDonough, GA to discuss your case openly even without getting hesitant because it’s the need of a child.
