What is child abuse?
Although growing up can be difficult, most children and young people receive the love and care they need to develop into healthy, happy young adults.
But some children are hurt, neglected and used by adults or other children. Younger children may not be aware that what is happening to them is abuse.
Abuse can mean different things to different children, and can happen once or many times.
Physical abuse is...
...when children are hurt or injured by parents or other people. Hitting, kicking, beating with objects, throwing and shaking are all physical abuse, and can cause pain, cuts, bruising, broken bones and sometimes even death.
'I haven't been to school for two days because I'm afraid that people will see the bruises on my arms in PE.'
Sexual abuse is...
...when children are forced or persuaded into sexual acts or situations by others. Children might be encouraged to look at pornography, be harassed by sexual suggestions or comments, be touched sexually or forced to have sex.
'I thought for a long time that what was happening was OK because Dad said it was a game that all fathers played with their sons, a secret game that only the men knew about.'
Emotional abuse is...
...when children are not given love, approval or acceptance. They may be constantly criticised, blamed, sworn and shouted at, told that other people are better than they are and rejected by those they look to for affection.
'I'm in care and I'm always being moved between foster homes. I feel unloved and unsettled.'
Neglect is...
...when parents or others looking after children do not provide them with proper food, warmth, shelter, clothing, care and protection.
'My mum and dad both have drinking problems. Sometimes there's nothing to eat in the house. And I'm often left alone to look after my brothers and sisters.'
This has to stop not just in the UK and USA its happening around the world as we type rate or help others to level..its been going on far too long,it effects not just the sufferer,but all those around them too.
Images like this shouldn't be burned into their dreams as they lay there innocent sleeping,have there childhood stolen from them,or be on the receiving a beating.
We live in the 21st century now time for this barbaric acts to end to women children alike,cherish them because one day... they may be gone.
