Community Service

In the past fiscal year child abuse referrals estimated to over 3 million cases. Out of those cases 30% of them had at least one child that was subjected to neglect and abuse. Childhood is the time when kids get to be kids. It is when they get to learn and explore new things and develop into the person they will be. When a child is subjected to abuse and neglect, they suffer serious psychological problems and they don't get the opportunity to have they childhood they deserve. They develop attachment disorders, disorganized attachment, and are more likely to have anxiety, depression, and problems with acting out. Not only does it effect what is suppose to be the most important time of their lives but it leaves long lasting effects too.
Addressing child abuse can be tricky because it involves trying to stop something before it happens. As an individual it is you that can try and prevent it. If you have concerns for a child, don't ignore it. There are certain signs that you can look for if you think a child is being neglected or abused. For physical abuse, cuts and bruises, resistance of going home, and fear of adults. For sexual abuse signs to look for are seductiveness, excessive aggression, and fear of a certain individual or family member. For emotional abuse, hostility, difficulty concentrating, and apathy are some concerning signs. If you know of a child that has these signs you can report it through the child abuse hot line or online. There are also several organizations such as The Community Coalition Against Family Violence and Tennyson Center for Children that focus on preventing and helping children avoid child abuse.
On a local level I can aid to the cause of preventing child abuse by just being aware that it could happen to any child. Just because a child comes from a strong family doesn't mean child abuse won't occur. By being away of the signs and knowing the steps to take I can help by being one more watchful eye in the community and can help prevent child abuse.