Children are one of the most vulnerable groups in society, requiring the most care and attention.
The primary and most important responsibility of a parent is the care and protection of their children.
Abuse of children
Many children suffer either as a result of something that an adult does, or because of something the adult neglects to do. The physical and mental effects can be both damaging and permanent. The result of the neglect may not be immediately evident, for example if a child is denied food or education, or if it is confined somewhere. Other forms of ill treatment and abuse are more evident, such as corporal punishment and sexual exploitation, and cause physical and mental trauma for the child.
It would seem that the laws governing physical abuse of children are interpreted differently in every country. In the majority of countries, there are specific laws that forbid and punish sexual relations with under-age children. The protection of children’s rights in this matter is guaranteed internationally by the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Means of prevention
The sexual exploitation of children has a long history amongst many peoples. The punishment and reformation of the offender are vital of course, but even more important is the protection of the child through prevention of such occurrences, in order to avoid adverse mental and social consequences.
The correct education, not just in school but also in the home through good parenting, is of fundamental importance. Basically, children should be taught to listen only to their parents and never allow a stranger to tell them what to do. In this way, no one can order or force a child to do something. If parents suspect that their child is being harassed, they should immediately get in touch with a child psychologist. They must understand that covering up the matter is the most unjust thing they can do to their child.
Can a child overcome the effects of sexual abuse?
In order to avoid further long-term negative consequences, the first major step is to allow the child to describe and report what has happened. Children that can discuss the matter with an adult of trust tend to overcome the problem with fewer repercussions than children who hide it.
Individuals who have experienced such violence during their childhood may well suffer from depression and mental instability as adults, and they might display self-destructive tendencies or become addicted to drugs.
A child victim of sexual abuse needs to live in peaceful surroundings and must be given the opportunity to open up his or her heart and talk about his or her fears.
Sexual education
According to some psychologists, children should be given sexual education appropriate to their age, which will prevent them from falling into a trap or becoming victims of sexual abuse.
Interrupted sleep, eating and learning disorders, isolation from school friends and school activities, are all signs that might suggest sexual abuse.
Finally, we would ask all parents to teach their children to say NO and to make it clear that they are available to listen to anything the child has to say.
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