A Take Two Presentation for Health Abuse A Take Two Presentation for Health

Narrowing the scope The lesson was a little more general because it focused on dating relationships. There are many variables and many different factors that play a role in those types of abuse situations. We are going to focus on child abuse to narrow things down a bit. While there are many different reasons and scenarios, the response factor for these situations may be a little easier to understand since helping a child who is abused is different than helping out someone your own age. The principles of the abuse relationship remain the same however. It is mainly about control and many of the reasons and causes are similar.

There are many myths associated with abuse It’s only abuse if it’s violent. There are many types of abuse. All of them are not physical violence. Only bad people abuse their children. It isn’t an absolute issue. The abuser may have been abused. They may not know any other way. These people need help, it is not just that they are “bad”. Child abuse doesn’t happen in good families. Abuse happens in all types of families. Just because a family seems to have it all doesn’t mean that abuse can’t be happening behind closed doors. Most abusers are strangers. Unfortunately, most children know their abuser. They are either family members or close friends. Abused children always grow up to be abusers The cycle can be broken at any time. While it may be more likely for an abused child to become an abuser, many of them have strong determination not to let it continue with their own children.

Effects of Abuse and Neglect Lack of trust Not being able to trust anyone stems from not being able to trust their parents or caregivers. This makes relationships difficult. Feelings of worthlessness Abuse by parents makes the child feel like they are worthless. May cause the child to grow up not caring if they succeed in life or not. Trouble regulating emotions Abused children can’t deal with emotions properly at times. They may lash out, become depressed, etc.

Types of Abuse There are 4 main types: Emotional Abuse Physical Abuse Sexual Abuse Neglect

Warning signs Emotional Physical Excessive withdrawal Extremes in behavior Not attached to parent or caregiver Acts either inappropriately adult or infantile Physical Unexplained injuries Always seems fearful or watchful Shies away from touch Wears clothes that cover injuries

Warning Signs Neglect Sexual Abuse Clothes that don’t fit or excessively dirty Constant bad hygiene Untreated illness or injury Frequently left alone or unsupervised Frequently late or absent from school Sexual Abuse Trouble walking or sitting Displays knowledge or interest in sexual behavior inappropriate for age Tries to avoid a specific person for no obvious reason STD or pregnancy before age 14 Runs away from home

Risk Factors Domestic violence Alcohol and drug abuse Untreated mental illness Lack of parenting skills Stress and lack of support

What can you do to help? Avoid denial Remain calm Don’t interrogate Reassure them they did nothing wrong Report to a professional

Sources http://www.helpguide.org/mental/child_abuse_physical_emotional_sexual_neglect.htm