Before the 19th century, children had less rights than animals when it came to protection against abuse or neglect. This is an unthinkable fact, but fortunately in 1976, a new law was instated to protect the rights of children. It was also strongly enforced that any suspicion on child abuse should be immediately reported by law.
In the 70's, initially 700,00 incidents of child abuse were statistically evident. Now, however, this amount has increased drastically. Approximately two million cases are reported each year. This sad statistic is only proof that although laws may attempt to resolve the devastating effects of child abuse, they cannot prevent it completely.
Many people are uncertain of the age of which children are abused and the crime is considered to be child abuse. All ages are susceptible to child abuse. Documented child abuse cases prove that the frequency of child abuse increases with the age of the victim. This proves that the older the child, the more susceptible they are to neglect or child abuse.
Perhaps a reason for this increase on child abuse on older children is their ability to verbally argue or induce the conflicting between themselves and their parents. Younger children such as toddlers or babies are unable to communicate, therefore may lessen the frustration or aggravation on the parents part. Whatever the cause may be, the fact is that this documentation is a growing problem that could possibly increasingly persist over the years.
Another form of child abuse, however is more commonly acted out on younger children. This form of abuse is known as sexual abuse. There are several committees, groups, and organizations that strive to prevent child sexual abuse. Although many of these organizations forcefully fight to protect these children, there are still so many cases of child abuse each year.
Counseling and help is available for the unfortunate victims of such tragic incidents. Their views on child abuse are to omit it permanently, but the aftermath and effects of such child abuse are typically permanent. Many children who are either neglected or abused face serious and permanent emotional damage throughout their life and even into adulthood. It is almost a fact that children who’ve undergone or experienced child abuse are more susceptible to involving themselves in self harm such as drugs or other promiscuous behavior. They are also more likely to commit suicide as a teenager.
Children are abused and neglected for many reasons, all involving the emotional stability of the parent. It is often a mystery why a parent would intentionally inflict harm on their own child.
This sad reality continues to increase, and the causes are evident. Adults who’ve endured a form of child abuse throughout their childhood typically abuse their own children. Terribly, the vicious cycle on child abuse continues. The question is when will it end.