Child abuse

There are several kinds of abuse which lead to emotional abuse in children.

Physical abuse, Sexual abuse, Economic and social abuse, Emotional, verbal or psychological abuse, Spiritual abuse and Cultural abuse.

Child abuse is a pattern of behaviour that attacks a child’s emotional development and sense of self-worth. Child abuse includes excessive, aggressive/ unreasonable demands that place expectations on a child beyond his or her capacity. Constant criticizing, belittling, insulting, rejecting and teasing are some of the forms these verbal attacks take. Child abuse also includes failure to provide the psychological nurturing necessary for a child's psychological growth and development, providing no love, support or guidance.

FORMS OF CHILD ABUSE
Physical Abuse
Bullying, kicking, slapping, pushing and punching
Bullying can take many forms: It may involve one child bullying another, a group of children against a single child or groups against other groups (gangs).

Sexual Abuse
Rape, sexual contact following the use of verbal power, subtle touches, oral and anal sex, gay/lesbianism.
Actions of a sexual nature that is forced, uncomfortable and unwelcome. Leering (suggestive looks) /necking. Misuse of authority.

Psychological/Emotional Abuse/Child Abuse
Teasing, isolation, criticizing, neglect, abandonment, putting down, verbal, not providing basic needs (food, clothing, health care)
Spiritual Abuse
Pastor’s sexual exploitation
Cultural Abuse
Widowhood rites
WHO ARE THE VICTIMS
(Who is abused?)
Not all children are equally likely to be abused. Children who are more prone to be picked upon tend to have the following characteristics:
• Low self-esteem
• Insecure
• Lack of social skills,
• don't pick up on social cues
• cry or become emotionally distraught easily
• Unable to defend or stand up for their rites.

Children who are not bullied tend to have better social skills and conflict management skills. They are more willing to assert themselves about differences without being aggressive or confronting. They tend to be more aware of people's feelings and are the children who can be most helpful in resolving disputes and assisting other children to get help.

EFFECTS
Child abuse effects are directly connected to the relationship between the victim and abuser. The closer the relationship, the more devastating the effects on the child or youth.

Low self-worth, irritability, sleep disorders, inability to trust others, depression, inappropriate behavior for age (risky behaviors), withdrawal, profound sadness ,habit disorders - sucking, biting, rocking ,aggression ,stealing , lying, self-harm ,prostitution, attempts at or completed suicide, and questioning of religious beliefs.

THE WAY FORWARD

The Role of the Parents (Prov.22:6)
Parents must
Create a loving home
Seek good advice on parenting roles
Exercise authority
Define family rules and enforce them promptly
Establish and maintain routines
Acknowledge your child’s feeling
Be impartial to all the children when resolving issues( Prov. 31:8-9)
Teach by example.

The Role of Victims
Victims need to
Talk
Have a sense of identity
Have reliable supportive friends
Develop positive self image