I chose “how abuse affects a child emotionally” as my simulation sub topic. I witness the effect that abuse has on my children daily. These children are vulnerable, and often fall victim to the hands of their caregivers. I have children in our program that are victims of abuse, and they have been emotionally scarred. These children are abused by their father and their mother who often turns her head in denial because she is a victim as well. This family is in a program called Protective Services, and this program is supposed to monitor families and help them feel safe. This family is not safe nor is they protected from their abusive male that does not live with them, he terrorizes these girls and their mother. The system has not protected these girls. When I suspect maltreatment as a mandated reporter I must report my suspicions, these children are trained not to tell, and if there are no bruises the report goes unfounded.
The girls are cowardly, and emotional distraught. They love their mother and father, but they are definitely afraid of the father, and are always on their guard.
This week I began to research abuse causes, to derive a solution for this family.
What more can I do for them? Colleagues, do you have any advice for me?
Sauda,
ReplyDeletePhysical abuse tends to occur at moments of great stress. Many people who commit physical abuse were abused themselves as children. As a result, they often do not realize that abuse is not appropriate discipline.
Often people who commit physical abuse also have poor impulse control. This prevents them from thinking about what happens as a result of their actions.
Sauda,
ReplyDeleteWhat you are doing is enough. The only thing I could suggest is slowly trying to become their best freind so that they don't look at you as an outsider and will be more willing to disclose information.
Hello Sauda,
ReplyDeleteWow! What an important subject to do research on! I wish you all the best throughout your researching journey. I can imagine that this will be an emotional and impactful topic for you! I think that you are on the right path with your children and families and hopefully I can think of some advice or support for you throughout the course. Keep doing what you are doing by being there for the children, reporting your suspicions, acting upon them, and providing resources and support to the families in your care.
Hi Sauda,
ReplyDeleteThis is such a great subject to research. Too many children are caufght in abusive situations that they can not control. I have not had to deal with this tyoe of situation yet in my career but I have watched a colleague of mine deal with it this year. I think it is a shame that a parent would hurt their child. I don't even like when my child is hurt on accident let alone hurting them on purpose. All I suggest you do is be there for them when they need you.