April begins the start of Child Abuse Awareness Month.
Child abuse is a disturbing issue that effects thousands of children around the world. Many children are afraid to speak up if they are abused. Some are afraid of the repercussions that may take place if they told on their abuser. Child abuse is defined as the physical, sexual or emotional maltreatment or neglect of a child or children.
Physical abuse is any form of physical aggression directed at a child by an adult. This includes hitting, slapping, beating a child. Physical abuse also results in bruises, cuts, scratches and burns inflicted on a child.
Another form of child abuse is sexual abuse. Sexual abuse is defined as the participation of a child in a sexual act, aimed toward a physical gratification or the financial profit of the person causing the abuse.
Emotional abuse is when a child suffers harsh language that makes them feel belittled. This involves harsh words such as telling a child they are “stupid” or “will never become anything in their life” or that they are “worthless.”
Child abuse effects children of all races, religions and nationalities, with the Middle Eastern culture included.
Many do not realize that referring to your child as “hmar” or telling them “intah mish zalama” or “Allah ma rah yetlah feek khair” are Arabic terms that should be considered child abuse.
This abuse has a major effect on children and will effect them for years to come, or possibly, the rest of their lives.
Neglect is a form of child abuse. Child neglect is the failure of a parent or guardian to tend to a child by failing to provide food, clothing, shelter, medical care or proper supervision that will effect the child’s health, safety and well-being of a child. Leaving a child in the car unattended, even if its just for a few minutes, is also neglect.
All these forms of child abuse are very serious and should be acknowledged. The earlier child abuse is caught, the better the chance of recovery and proper treatment for the child.
There are signs to look out for when it comes to the various forms of abuse.
Signs to look for in physical abuse are frequent injuries or unexplained bruises, welts, or cuts. The child may always seem scared or on alert, just waiting for something bad to happen. Children may have marks that appear to be from a hand or a belt. The child may not want to be touched, or may be afraid of sudden movements, or afraid to go home. They may be wearing larger clothing to hide their marks or scars.
Signs of sexual abuse may include trouble walking or sitting. They may display knowledge or interest in sexual acts or display seductive, inappropriate behavior. They may try to avoid a specific person for no apparent reason. Children who are sexually abused may also be afraid to change their clothes in front of anyone, or may choose not to take part in physical activities. Other signs of sexual abuse may also include an early pregnancy or a sexually transmitted disease (STD).
Signs for emotional abuse include being withdrawn, afraid or nervous about doing something wrong. They may be passive or aggressive or show demanding behavior. Children who are emotionally abused may not be attached to their parents, guardian or caregiver. Another sign is rocking from side to side, throwing tantrums or even thumb-sucking.
Signs of neglect include dirty clothing and not being dressed in appropriate clothing for the weather. The child’s hygiene might be bad and children may appear to be unbathed, their hair may not looked taken care of and they may have a bad body odor. Children may appear untreated for illness or physical injuries. They may be late or missing school on a regular basis. Children who are neglected may also be unsupervised often and left alone in bad environments.
No community or religion or economic status is immune from child abuse. Arab and Muslim communities are no different. One of the hardest issues Arab American Family Services faces is discussing this taboo issue. But we cannot ignore this serious issue. It is not just our job to discuss this issue, but it is our job to help these vulnerable children and prevent them from suffering.
AAFS does pride itself on its contract with the Department of Children and Family Services, but we want to do more prevention. We want to educate, empower and provide resources for anyone in an abusive situation.
Please contact us and let us help you and your family. Educate yourselves on the signs of child abuse. There is nothing wrong with calling for help, It is always better to be safe than sorry. No one should wait until it is too late and God forbid, a child suffer life threatening injuries, or even worst, death.
This month will be devoted to education, information and outreach.
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AAFS is here to help. Please contact us at (708) 599-2237 with any questions.
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