Why do parents abuse their children

Not all suspicions of child abuse turn out to be true. But all deserve serious attention and fast action. The earlier abuse is identified and stopped, the earlier medical care, therapy , and counseling can help children and families heal.

So if you suspect abuse, speak up. If a child tells you about abuse, take it seriously. All children deserve to be heard, protected, and helped. Reviewed by: Stephanie A. Deutsch, MD. Larger text size Large text size Regular text size. What Is Child Abuse? What Are the Types of Child Abuse?

Sexual abuse is sexual contact like sexual acts or non-contact sexual activities like taking or sharing sexual photos and sexual talk between: an adult and someone younger than 18 an older child or teen and a much younger child one person who has power over another, no matter their ages Most cases of sexual abuse involve a close trusted adult or family member who abuses the child's trust. In some states, it's child abuse if: adults let a child drink alcohol or take illegal drugs adults make, take, or sell illegal drugs in the presence of a child a woman uses illegal drugs while pregnant Medical child abuse is when adult caregivers harm a child with too much medical care, such as medicines, appointments, surgeries, or lab tests that are not needed.

Who Causes Child Abuse? For example, parents who abuse their children may: Always talk negatively about the child or call the child worthless. Try to keep the child away from others. Have a hard time talking about their children's injuries or behavioral problems. Show little concern or affection for the child. What Are the Signs of Child Abuse? First, remove yourself from the situation. Walk away. Then, use one of these resources to find ways to navigate your feelings, emotions, and the steps that are necessary to handle the situation.

If you believe a child you know is being abused, seek immediate help for that child. Child abuse is any type of abuse or neglect that harms a child. Child abuse is almost always preventable. It requires a level of recognition on the part of parents and caregivers. However, this work is worth the effort. Overcoming abuse and neglect can help families become stronger.

It can also help children lower their risk for future complications. A study examined the role of a variety of adverse childhood experiences on health in adults. Experiences included:. Individuals who were abused as children are more likely to repeat the cycle of behavior with their own children. Child abuse or neglect may also lead to substance use disorders in adulthood. If you were abused as a child, these consequences may seem dismal to you.

But remember, help and support is out there. You can heal and thrive. Knowledge is also power. Understanding the side effects of child abuse can help you make healthy decisions now. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs. Why do parents abuse their children?

Geriatrics Nursing. Continue Learning about Child Abuse How can our family protect my child from potential abuse? Your family can protect your child from potential abuse by following a model that many groups use to Does abuse alter a child's brain? Kathleen Hall. Lawrence Brass, M. How can I encourage a child to speak about his abuse? To encourage a child to speak about child abuse, acknowledge his or her courage in speaking out.