The Solutions of Child Abuse

As an individual, you have the right to stop child abuse and neglect. Start by:

• Understanding the problem. Child abuse and neglect may occur in any children. In 2001, reports have shown that an estimated 903,000 children nationwide were victims of maltreatment. These are just reported cases; experts believe that actual number of abuse and neglect are more numerous than statistics indicate.

• Understanding the terms. There are many forms of child abuse. Such as physical abuse, emotional neglect, sexual abuse, and emotional abuse. Usually more than one type of abuse or neglect occurs within families.

• Understanding the causes. Most parents don't intend to hurt or neglect their children. Many were abused or neglected themselves. Young or inexperienced parents might have difficulties in taking care of their babies or what they can expect from children at different stages of growth. Poverty, divoice, sickness, disability may sometimes lead parents to take a toll on their child. Parents with alcohol or drug problems are more likely to cause maltreatment to their children.

• Support programs that support families. Parent education, community centers, respite care services, and substance abuse treatment programs help to protect children by addressing circumstances that place families at risk for child abuse and neglect.

• Report suspected abuse and neglect. By doing so, you may save a child from a life long torture. Call the police if you suspect a child is being maltreated or neglected.
• Spread the word. Help educate others about child abuse and neglect. Organize campaigns to help spread the word. Create broachers or post ads online to create awareness of child abuse.
• Strengthen the fabric of your community. Get to know your neighbors their children. Volunteer to help stressed parents to watch their children while they take a break. Activities that strengthen communities, for example, service to civic clubs and participation on boards and committees, may ultimately contribute to the well-being of children.
• Be ready in an emergency. If we witnessed scenarios of a child is being, or is about to be, physically or verbally abused, we can try to talk to the adult to get their attention away from the child. Say something like, "Children can really wear you out, can't they?" or "My child has done the same thing." Or you can ask if you can help in any way. If you see a child in a public place unattended, stay with the child until the parent returns.
• Prevention begins at home. A parent must take some time to re-evaluate their parenting skills. They must be honest with themselves. For example, do they yell at their children? Do they hit them? Do they enjoy being a parent at least most of the time?

Communication and educating our children are the important in preventing any abuse. Unconditional love and acceptance are very important for every child. With this foundation, we can make a difference and stop child abuse all over the world.