WHAT IS CHILD ABUSE?

It is generally acknowledged that there are four main types of abuse – physical, sexual, emotional and neglect.

PHYSICAL ABUSE

Physical abuse is just what the term implies – hurting or injuring a child, for example, by hitting or shaking them.  It might also occur if a child is forced to train beyond his/her capabilities.  Bullying is likely to come into this category.

SEXUAL ABUSE

Sexual abuse occurs when a child knowingly takes part in something which meets the sexual needs of the other person or persons involved – it could range from sexually suggestive comments to full intercourse.

EMOTIONAL ABUSE

Emotional abuse occurs when a child is not given love, help and encouragement and is constantly derided or ridiculed or perhaps even worse, ignored.  Conversely, it can also occur if a child is over-protected.  It is present in the unrealistic expectations of parents and coaches over what a child can achieve.  Racially and sexually abusive remarks constitute emotional abuse and it can be a feature of bullying.

What is bullying?

Bullying is often defined in terms of three components: -

¨      It must occur over time, rather than being a single aggressive act.

¨      It involves an imbalance of power, the powerful attack the powerless.

¨      It can be psychological, verbal, or physical in nature.

The most common experiences of bullying and discrimination reported by young people was at the hands of other young people: -

¨      Being called names, insulted or verbally abused.

¨      Being deliberately embarrassed and humiliated by other children.

¨      Being made to feel different or like an outsider.

¨      Being lied about.

¨      Being physically assaulted or threatened with violence.

¨      Being ignored.

Boys are most likely to experience physical bullying or threats, have property stolen or damaged.  Girls are more likely to be ignored or not spoken to.

Bullying by adults is a less common experience.  Of this form of bullying the most common experiences are: -

¨      Being deliberately embarrassed or humiliated.

¨      Being unfairly treated or verbally abused.

¨      Being ignored or not spoken to

NEGLECT

Neglect usually means failing to meet children’s basic needs such as food, warmth, adequate clothing, medical attention etc.  It could also mean failing to ensure they are safe or exposing them to harm.