Variety Of Child Abuse Types Makes Blood Freeze But Knowledge Of It Plays Great Role In Fight Against Abuse

October 23, 2018

When it comes to our children – safety comes first. But what if we told you that you could harm your children intentionally? And if you don’t believe us, you will have no arguments against the statistics. The numbers show that in most child abuse cases, the abusers are the victim’s parents. This is simply due to the fact that child neglect is one of the most common types of child abuse. Therefore, if you want to protect your children, the first thing you need to do is to learn about all the types of child abuse.

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What are the types of child abuse?

The definitions of each type vary across the states in the US. According to the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA), there are 6 types of child abuse, 4 of which happen extremely frequently: physical abuse, emotional (mental, psychological) abuse, sexual abuse, and child neglect. Two other types include substance abuse and child exploitation.

1. Physical abuse

One of the most common types of child abuse, physical abuse, is any act that causes physical injuries to a child. Often times, parents do not realize how harmful physical abuse can be. Not only it can cause long-term to the child’s mental health, but also it can lead to different physical issues (fractures, internal bleeding, etc.)

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2. Emotional abuse

Emotional (also mental, or psychological) abuse is arguably the most hidden types of abuse. Mental abuse rarely manifests itself physically until it’s too late. Any action or words that can cause severe distress and harm to a child’s psyche is considered emotional abuse. It rarely happens intentionally, and the abuser (typically parents, other relatives, friends, and teachers) is not aware of harming the victim. The classic example of such behavior is an overprotective parent. Typical forms of emotional abuse include: rejecting, terrorizing, ignoring, isolating, and corrupting.

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3. Sexual abuse

By definition, sexual abuse occurs when an adult uses a child’s body to satisfy their sexual needs. The most horrific type of child abuse affects the child’s both physical and mental health most terrifyingly: from the physical damage to organs, STDs, and neurological traumas, to depression, suicidal behavior, trust issues, low self-esteem, etc. Sexual abuse includes indecent exhibitionism, exposing a minor to pornographic materials, sexual intercourse, forcing a child to touch an adult’s genitals, etc.

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4. Child neglect

Inability or failing to provide a child with their basic needs in food, clothing, shelter, proper care, and attention is considered child neglect. There are many reasons for child neglect: from poverty to simple lack of concern (especially true in the case of step-children). The most obvious signs of child neglect are the signs of malnutrition and different behavioral disorders.

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Child abuse can happen in any family. Even the most loving and caring parents can emotionally abuse their children. Every day, 5 children die from child abuse and neglect. More than 700,000 cases of child abuse are reported each year. Imagine how many more remain unknown! It is our duty to raise awareness about this horrible issue. We believe that it’s the only way of solving it. Let’s protect our children!