07/18/2012
Child Abuse
A child is reported being abused every ten seconds. Five children die everyday as a result of this. Approximately 80 percent of children that die from abuse are under the age of four. Child abuse occurs at every socioeconomic level, across ethnic and cultural lines, in all religions and at all levels of education. About 30 percent of abused children will abuse their children continuing a vicious cycle of abuse. The estimated cost of child abuse and neglect in the United States for 2008 is $124 billion. It is evident in the statistics that are presented before you that child abuse and neglect does not discriminate. It is also apparent that this actually cost the government $124 billion to fund as of 2008. This is something that we as a people need to come together in order help prevent.
Historically speaking, back in the day it was okay to discipline your child without any repercussions of doing so. But nowadays it is much different and there is a fine line between disciplining your child and abusing your child. There are laws now that are set in place to protect children who have become the victim of abuse, such as § 18.2-371.1 Any parent, guardian, or other person responsible for the care of a child under the age of 18 who by willful act or omission or refusal to provide any necessary care for the child's health causes or permits serious injury to the life or health of such child shall be guilty of a Class 4 felony. For purposes of this subsection, "serious injury" shall include but not be limited to (i) disfigurement, (ii) a fracture, (iii) a severe burn or laceration, (iv) mutilation, (v) maiming, (vi) forced ingestion of dangerous substances, or (vii) life-threatening internal injuries. There are some signs and prevention tips that can help in this cause.
Some signs that may suspect abuse is unexpected injuries such as bruises or burns, changes in behavior, a child may appear to be depressed or anxious. Fear of going home is another sign. Changes in eating, sleeping, school performance, lack of personal care and hygiene, risk taking behaviors, and inappropriate sexual behaviors. Prevention signs include the following, Helping parents learn to raise and nurture their children without physical or emotional violence. This can be done through support groups and parenting programs and through public awareness campaigns. Organizing and supporting early intervention programs like Healthy Families Virginia, that provides continuous support to families from the birth of a child through age five. Training teachers, day care workers, doctors and other professionals about how to prevent abuse and how to recognize and treat abuse when it does occur and supporting laws and programs that protect children from the pain of abuse.
This is a time to speak up for those who cannot do it themselves. Become a CASA Volunteer now, they are waiting.
