Child
Abuse
Child abuse, whether it be emotional, physical or
sexual, occurs in all segments of our society. The damage from
child abuse often lasts a lifetime. It is estimated that 1 in 4 girls
are sexually abused during their childhood. Adults that abuse often
experience problems handling anger, emotional problems, alcohol or drug
dependence, and a history of prior abuse as a child.
Children that are abused present common warning
signs. These include an unusual interest in sex, nervousness or
guardedness around adults, emotional regression, aggression towards
others, flightiness and distractibility, unexplained injuries or
bruises, poor self-esteem, and sudden changes in personality.
The damage from child abuse can be treated in
counseling. Help can also be provided for the abuser.
Child abuse is illegal. Health care providers are
obligated by law to report child abuse.