Friends, through this blog article I aim to provide How To Stop Child Violence because it is such a horrific experience for minors of their age who had experienced misbehaving against her/him back then. It is a heinous act that inflicts a life-long impact on countless young ones' brains. I'm discussing this topic to raise awareness about such a serious act. By taking these steps I'm pretty sure that we can prevent and save minors from these traumatic experiences if not we can definitely overcome these issues that's for sure.
How To Stop Child Violence
Friends, child violence is like a disease, like when we are sick, we go to the doctor and tell them our problems, then the doctor gives us medicine according to that, likewise until we don't know what the disease i.e. Child Violence is till then we will not be able to stop it. However, I believe that by raising awareness and taking proactive steps, we can play a very important role towards preventing and ending this heinous act. I will also aware you of its signs, types etc. Crimes against juveniles, such as sexual violence against a minor, underage mistreatment, underage work, etc., are increasing daily, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. Having experienced abuse in my early years, I understand the devastating impact it can have on a young and innocent life. I remember someone touching me inappropriately in my childhood. Even though it took me as well more than 11 years to recover from this trauma
However, I don't completely recover from this trauma and still struggling to make healthy relationships with others.
What Is Child Violence
Child Violence is a type of maltreatment that is a serious issue that shall not be ignored at any cost because it can cause harm or endangers the physical, emotional, or psychological well-being of your little one. There are various ways in which violence and maltreatment can occur with your junior which I'm going to discuss with you in detail below:-👇
Types of Child Violence
There are several types of Childhood Violence that I explain one by one in detail below👇:-
A). Physical Assault
There are several types of Physical Assault on children, such as:-
I). Slapping or Spanking and Physical Punnishment⏩ Parents always use physical force to maintain the discipline of their children, which could cause serious injuries, pain or harm to their kids, which is wrong. There are many ways to punish children instead of physical punishment, such as you can ask them to clean their room as a punishment, or you can ask them for planting as well. By taking these steps, you are not only punishing your kid, but you're also teaching them life lessons and good manners.
II). Pinching and Hair Pulling ⏩ This is another type of physical abuse that can be caused by parents, caregivers and mentors. In other words, this is an illegal and unforgivable crime in India. I'm not saying this, but our constitution saying this. Take a look at this article ⏬
Section 17 (1) of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 expressly bans subjecting a toddler to mental harassment or physical punishment. Cruelty to children is also prohibited under Section 23 of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2000.
Overall it's important to note that any kind of Physical Punishment, such as Slapping Or Pulling A kid's Hair can be grey area and vary widely depending on cultural, religious, and familial beliefs. However, any physical discipline that causes injury or harm is considered abuse and can have long-lasting physical and emotional consequences for the toddler which is unacceptable. Parents, caregivers, and other adults must understand the difference between discipline and abuse and take steps to prevent and address physical abuse.
B). Sexual Violence
Sexual Abuse can be divided into several parts as well, such as:-
I). Sexual Contact ⏩ Sexual Contact with the minor, such as touching their genital parts, kissing on the lips etc. can be considered Sexual Abuse against a kiddo or Sexual Harassment. According to Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 came into effect on 14th November 2012 and was enacted as a consequence of India's ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1992.
Overall, it is important to note that sexual abuse can have long-lasting physical and emotional consequences for little kids, including physical injuries, sexually transmitted infections, and psychological trauma. For more details on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences
(POCSO) Act, you can click on this link ⬇️
II). Non-Contact Abuse⏩ Any type of sexual activities that don't involve physical contact between an adult and child, such as exposure to sexual content towards a child, e.g. pornography or adult magazines, voyeurism or peeping on a child while changing clothes etc.
However, it's important to note that non-contact abuse can have long-lasting psychological and emotional consequences for the little kids, including feelings of shame, guilt, and confusion.
C). Emotional Violence
Endangering a minor emotionally or psychologically is another form of child abuse that can leave lasting scars. Here are some examples of Emotional Abuse:-
I). Insulting or Verbal Abuse ⏩ Insulting or Verbal Abuse can cause psychological risks in children. Sometimes teachers and friends moke on children in school as well at home by parents and other elders. It can Emotionally disturb your child. Unfortunately, children may face verbal abuse from peers and adults in many settings, including at home and at school.
II). Ignoring ⏩ Sometimes parents Ignore Their Children, especially when they are mentally disturbed. This is also included in Emotional Abuse. By Ignoring your child, you are pushing them into a swamp from which they will never return. Even fighting towards your child is a kind of Emotional Abuse as well.
D). Neglect
Neglect is another example of delinquency with minors that can ruin your kid's entire future. I'm well aware of this because I already pass through these situations:-
I). Emotional Neglect ⏩ Emotional Neglect indicates the failure to provide an adolescent with emotional needs, such as love, affection and support or encouragement etc. Another example of Emotional Neglect is when a child tells their parents that they're sad about their friends at school, but their parents brush it off as a childhood game instead of listening and helping the child cope.
II). Supervisory Neglect ⏩ Supervisory Neglect means failing to provide appropriate supervision for a child, such as leaving a young child home alone even for a while can be dangerous. Supervisory Neglect can be considered a crime including Physical Neglect, Educational Neglect, Medical Neglect, Emotional Neglect etc.
This chart shows that minors are more likely to be victims of abuse by people they know and trust, while children are less likely to be victims of underage mistreatment by strangers.
However, any type of inappropriate activity that harms a kid whether it is a girl or boy is intolerable.
Impact On Children's Brain Of Child Neglect
It can have long-lasting impacts on a children's brain development and function.
Here are some potential impacts on children's brains that I mention below ⏬
Brain Structure Changes
Recently researchers have been researching children's brains who have passed through maltreatment. Research has shown that children who experience misbehaviour may have a different brain structure including a small brain volume, such as Hippocampus or Prefrontal Cortex. As I mentioned earlier that it can harm children's brain development.
Emotional And Behavioral Or Psychological Changes
Children may have to feel Emotional and Behavioral or Psychological Changes when they are neglected or abused. This makes it hard for them to develop emotional attachments with others. It may also contribute to the development of mental health disorders.
Increased Risk Of Mental Health Problems In Children
Those who have been abused during childhood can Increase the Risks of Mental Health Problems in Children, such as Anxiety, Depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PSTD), Substance Abuse Disorder (SUD) etc.
Stress Response Changes
Child Abuse can have a long-lasting impact on children's brain and mental development. Which is the way the body reacts to stressful situations. A child experiences many things after abuse, such as hypervigilance, meaning they are on high alert for potential threats or dangers even in non-threatening situations.
How To Stop Child Violence
There are lots of things that we can do to stop end violence against children once and for all, such as 👇
#1. Teach Your Children About Sex-Education Or Good Touch And Bad Touch
Teaching children about Sex-Education Or Good Touch And Bad Touch can help to protect children from harm and abuse. However, teaching your children Sex Education would be challenging, and it's also a sensitive topic. Parents must remember that providing their children with accurate information
about their bodies, personal boundaries, and healthy relationships
can help protect them from neglect and violence. Also, remember that there is no fixed age when children should learn about their bodies and personal boundaries. Start teaching them this topic as soon as possible at the age of 3 or 4, but watch out for your words because they can be negative impacts on children's brains. For example, my niece is 6 years old, and I already teach her the difference between good and bad things. She knows the difference between good and bad touch.
As I mention earlier we have to teach minors about their body and personal boundaries and tell them what is bad touch and good touch. But unfortunately in countries like India, we always prefer to stay away from such important issues. Until we understand why this topic is so important, this cycle will go on like this.
#2. Give Some Time With Your Kids
Understandably, parents are too busy with their daily routines and need more time to spend with their kids. But spending time with their kids can heal them from the traumatic experience. They need you and your support.
#3. Knowledge Of Child Molestation
It's important to know what Child Molestation is. It can be physical or sexual, as I already mentioned above. Any abusive activity that harms children will be considered a crime at any cost.
#4. Recognize The Signs
If you find unexpected injuries on your child, be aware because it could be a sign of misbehaving or maltreatment with children. However, this isn't the only sign of misbehaviour with a child. Even depression, sudden changes in sleeping patterns, nightmares etc. are some of the other reasons that can be recognized as signs of child maltreatment.
#5. Teach Them Martial Arts Or Self-Defence
Every child must learn Martial Arts to protect themselves, whether it is a girl or a boy. As long as a kid knows how to defend themselves from bad guys and bad touch children would be safe.
#6. Educate Yourself and Others on this Issue
To eliminate misconduct with a minor from the root, firstly you have to educate yourself and others on the issue because education is a powerful tool in addressing any social problem, such as the sexual assault of a minor. Notice their behaviour if your toddler's behaviour suddenly changes then be alert because it could be a red flag. Also, you can complain about inappropriate sexual behaviour with a child on this website " https://www.childlineindia.org/ " or you can report the FIR on this childline number "1098" as an alternative. Better if you teach your young one about this website and childline number, whether it is a boy or a girl so that they can take proper steps at right time on their own.
#7. Promote Positive Parenting Practices
To address this issue it's crucial to promote positive parenting practices and create a safe environment for kids so they can grow up without fear.
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Image Credit: " https://www.cnbc.com/make-it/ "
Positive parenting practices, such as building a strong and loving relationship with your child, being a good role model for your child, using appropriate discipline rather than physical punishment etc.
#8. Build a community together to prevent child abuse
Together, we can create a strong and supportive community that actively works to prevent child abuse. By joining with others who share our commitment to protecting children, we can create a safe environment for all children to thrive. Let's work together to build a community that prioritizes the well-being of our children and takes proactive steps to prevent the abuse of minors.
#9. Raise Awareness About Child Violence
#10. Challenge cultural attitudes that condone or normalize violence
To prevent child violence, we must challenge cultural attitudes that condone violence, such as physical punishment to maintain discipline like spanking, slapping or pulling etc. We must also work to change the societal and cultural norms that perpetuate it. By calling out harmful attitudes and behaviours, we can create a safer and more supportive environment for children to grow up in. Let's break the cycle of violence by promoting positive values and beliefs, and by setting a strong example for future generations.
#11. Know How to Report Child Abuse and Neglect
It is crucial for parents and caregivers they must have enough knowledge of How to Report Child Abuse and Neglect no matter what. By reporting abuse, you can make a significant impact on your child's life and ensure their safety and well-being. Remember, reporting misbehaviour is not just a moral obligation, but also a legal requirement in many countries including India. So, if you suspect abuse or neglect, don't hesitate even a little bit to speak up and take action. Your actions can be the catalyst for positive change in a child's life.
#12. Model non-violent conflict resolution strategies
One of the most effective ways to prevent child violence is to model non-violent conflict resolution strategies. Children learn by observing the behaviour of adults around them, especially their parents and caregivers. If they see adults using violence or aggression to solve conflicts, they are more likely to adopt the same behaviour. On the other hand, if they witness adults using non-violent strategies such as communication, negotiation, and compromise, they are more likely to use these same strategies themselves.#13. Encourage positive peer relationships
By promoting positive peer relationships is an important step in preventing child violence. Children are social beings, and their relationships with peers play a crucial role in their emotional and social development. Positive peer relationships can help children build self-esteem, improve their communication and problem-solving skills, and reduce the likelihood of engaging in violent or aggressive behaviour.
#14. Advocate for stronger laws and policies that protect children
Advocating for stronger laws and policies to protect our young generation is the responsibility of lawmakers and policy-makers and every member of society. The future of our community depends on the well-being of our young ones, and we must do everything we can to protect their rights and ensure their safety.
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By advocating for stronger laws and policies, we can hold individuals and institutions accountable for their actions and ensure that they face the consequences for any harm caused to the younger generation. So, let's raise our voices to demand stronger laws and policies that prioritize the well-being of our young ones and create a safer world for them to grow and thrive in. Remember stronger rules and policies aren't enough to prevent violence against minors we've to raise our voices together on such issues and do whatever we can to protect them so we don't have to hesitate.
Overall, children are unaware of what Child Violence is. Our duty as a guardian is to teach them the differences between good and wrong to protect them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, child violence is a sensitive and serious issue affecting countless children worldwide. Stop child violence guardians, caregivers, educational institutes or schools can play a crucial role. Firstly, it is important that we have to educate ourselves and others on the issue of child violence and its long-lasting effects on children. It's very crucial for parents when they learn that their children have been maltreated by someone take action without delay, such as complaining to the local police station immediately.
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