Child abuse (­The hidden demon)

Child abuse is the physical emotional maltreatment or neglect of a child or children. Children in their early years are dependent on adults (Their parents, guardians etc). This makes them vulnerable to various forms of abuse like neglect, physical abuse, psychological or emotional abuse.  Dealing with these types of abuse should be of utmost priority to the governing bodies.

Physical abuse involves physical aggression directed at a child by an adult. Bruises, scratches, burns, broken bones, lacerations, as well as repeated "mishaps," and rough treatment that could cause physical injury, can be physical abuse. Most of the physical abuse occurs as a result of child discipline. Corporal punishment, has since then been considered as degrading treatment by the Human Rights commission of the United Nations. Our culture, unfortunately considers corporal punishment as an effective way of disciplining the child. Though it achieves the temporary goal of making a child obedient, it doesn’t make him understand why. This leads to emotional and physical trauma, which is ultimately degrading to the child.

Emotional abuse is defined as the production of psychological and social defects in the growth of a child as a result of behaviour such as loud yelling, coarse and rude attitude, inattention, harsh criticism, and denigration of the child's personality. This leads to the child distancing himself from the abuser, and trying to fight back against the abuser. All this induces a feeling of helplessness in the child.

 Child neglect is the failure of a parent or other person with responsibility for the child to provide needed food, clothing, shelter, medical care, or supervision to the degree that the child's health, safety, and well-being are threatened with harm. Neglecting a child could have serious repercussions on his ability to mingle with people socially and forming relationships.

Child abuse can result in immediate adverse physical effects but it is also strongly associated with associated with developmental issues and with many chronic physical and psychological effects. Also, maltreated children may grow up to be maltreating adults.

Effective ways to address the issue of child abuse is to eradicate child labour. Child labour is considered to be a form of exploitation and abuse of children. Paediatricians can help identify children at risk of maltreatment and intervene with the aid of a social worker or provide access to treatment that addresses potential risk factors such as maternal depression. And also awareness should be spread among adults to ensure that they do not mistreat their children, and ensure that they are not vulnerable, emotionally or physically.

Let it be a responsibility for us to stop the abuse of children, and fight back against the perpetrators of the vilest form of violation of human rights and ensure that this world is made a better place for children to grow and interact in. Let their lives bask in joy and happiness.