Child Abuse

[Anti-Frizz]

Although growing up can be difficult, most children and young people receive the love and care they need to develop into healthy, happy young adults.

But some children are hurt, neglected and used by adults or other children. Younger children may not be aware that what is happening to them is abuse.

Abuse can mean different things to different children, and can happen once or many times.

Physical abuse is...
...when children are hurt or injured by parents or other people. Hitting, kicking, beating with objects, throwing and shaking are all physical abuse, and can cause pain, cuts, bruising, broken bones and sometimes even death.

Emotional abuse is...
...when children are not given love, approval or acceptance. They may be constantly criticised, blamed, sworn and shouted at, told that other people are better than they are and rejected by those they look to for affection.

Neglect is...
...when parents or others looking after children do not provide them with proper food, warmth, shelter, clothing, care and protection.

In 2000/2001, 9,857 children and young people (7,154 girls and 2,703 boys) talked to ChildLine about sexual abuse and 13,285 about physical abuse (8,639 girls and 4,646 boys).

What are your opinions on child abuse?

[clearmint]

If we did, we wouldn't share it in public, I would advise you to close these topics as they may be differcult to talk about and may lead to the victem getting upset, so as I said, I would advise you to close the topics

[Jacko2kn3]

If a person does not wish to talk about it, then they do not have to post.

[clearmint]

If a person does not wish to talk about it, then they do not have to post.
Iknow, but reading about it may be painful too

[Anti-Frizz]

Well, Im sure that there are some people who dont know about these things because they havent experienced them, this gives them an insight of how others who are/were in this postion feel/felt.
Even if no one wants to comment... Theres still information for those who COULD be suffering in silence.

[Bef]

Hm, No dont close this topic. I find personally it is easier to talk about my problems on here then it is to talk to friends, family or councilers. I had a hard childhood but my problems were different. My mother was an alcoholic and i used to have to look after my sisters and brothers all the time. Money was very tight as my mother used to spend most of it on booze. We lived in a small council flat. My father lives in London and doesnt really want anything to do with me but he used to give me £50 a week (which he thought was to buy clothes and stuff for me) But i spent it on food and clothing for the kids. I was in an abusive relationship aswell and had really hit rock bottom.My mother didnt care about us at all. Last year, it all got to much and i blurted out everything to my educational physcoligist. we all got taken into care, My baby sister died and my Im no longer allowed contact with my other brother and sister. It hurts but my life is getting better, i have a big circle of friends and i now live with my auntie and uncle who love me like a daughter! I havent seen my mother in a year now and frankly i dont want to. My dad doesnt want much contact with me as he has a new life, which im not a part of. Il never forget my harder times as its made me the strong person i am today. If anybody is in a bad situation at home then i suggest u do talk to somebody, Most schools have a counsiler or a welfare officer. If u dont think u can talk to them then feel free to Pm me. Its nice to get everything off your chest and have somebody ther u no will listen and help as much as they can. It isn't your fault your in this situation. It's just the card youve been dealt. And suicide is not an option, Life will get better. Mine has.