Child abuse is more than bruises and broken bones. While physical abuse might be the most visible, other types of abuse, such as emotional abuse and neglect, also leave deep, lasting scars. The earlier abused children get help, the greater chance they have to heal and break the cycle – rather than perpetuate it.
There are several types of child abuse (emotional, neglect, physical, sexual), but the core element that ties them together is the emotional effect on the child. Children need predictability, structure, clear boundaries, and the knowledge that their parents are looking out for their safety. Abused children cannot predict how their parents will act. Their world is an unpredictable, frightening place with no rules. Whether the abuse is a slap, a harsh comment, stony silence, or not know if there will be dinner on the table tonight, the end result is a child that feels unsafe, not cared for, and alone.
By learning about common signs of abuse and what you can do to intervene, you can make a huge difference in a child’s life.