Talking about Child Abuse

What is child abuse? "Child abuse" can be defined as Causing or permitting any harmful or offensive contact on a child's body. Any communication or transaction of any kind which humiliates, shames, or frightens the child Any act or omission, in the upbringing of children, that fails to nurture them.

A child of any age, sex, race, religion, and socioeconomic background can fall victim to child abuse and neglect.

The 4 types of child abuse are: Physical Abuse Sexual Abuse Emotional Abuse Neglect

Physical Abuse Physical abuse of any child is when he/she sustains an injury resulting from physical aggression. The injury may be the result of Beating, slapping, or hitting. Pushing, shaking, kicking, or throwing. Pinching, biting, choking, or hair-pulling. Burning with cigarettes, scalding water, or other hot objects. Severe physical punishment.

Sexual Abuse Sexual abuse of any child is any sexual act between an adult and a child, including intercourse, incest, rape, oral sex, and sodomy. Other examples include Fondling - Touching a child's genitals, making a child fondle an adult's genitals. Violations of bodily privacy - Forcing a child to undress, spying on a child in the bathroom or bedroom. Exposing children to adult sexuality - Performing sexual acts in front of a child, showing pornography to a child. Commercial exploitation - Sexual exploitation through child prostitution or child pornography.

Emotional Abuse Emotional abuse of any child is any attitude, behavior, or failure to act that interferes with a child's mental health or social development. It can range from a simple verbal insult to an extreme form of punishment. Emotional abuse is almost always present when another form of abuse is found. •Verbal abuse •Mental abuse •Psychological maltreatment or psychological abuse

Neglect Physical Neglect Failure to provide food, clothing appropriate for the weather, supervision, a home that is hygienic and safe, and/or medical care, as needed. Educational Neglect Failure to enroll a child in school or to provide necessary special education. This includes allowing excessive absences from school. Emotional Neglect Failure to provide emotional support, love, affection and guidance.

Some notable effects of abuse Low self-worth Inability to trust others Inability to control emotions Aggression Withdrawal Difficulties at school Chronic anxiety and fear Shame and guilt The need to control situations and others A perception of self as victim Depression Self-harm and suicide

Speak out! There are ways to stop and overcome abuse

What to do if you are being abused Tell someone you trust about what is happening to you. As difficult as it may be, it is the first step that MUST me taken. Tell an adult preferably (a teacher, counsellor, leader in your church, parent of a friend or family friend) because they will know what channels to go through to help you. If you confide in a friend, maybe they can tell an adult what is happening. You can also call a helpline. Childline South Africa’s number is 0800 055 555. You can call for free, any time.

What to do if you know someone who is being abused Tell someone you trust about what is happening to your friend. Tell an adult preferably (a teacher, counsellor, leader in your church or parent). You can also call a helpline. Childline South Africa on 0800 055 555. Let your friend know how much you care about them and that you are doing this because you want to help them.

Overcoming Abuse There are counsellors, social workers and mental health professionals who can help those who have been abused process the experiences they have gone through. Take comfort in the knowledge that anyone can heal from abuse if they make use of the help available to them. A normal, happy life is within everyone’s reach.