Child abuse is a new name for an old problem that has become more public. With the growing awareness of the problem, more demand has been made for better child protection laws, training programs for professionals and treatment programs for victims and abusers.
Abuse occurs when a more powerful person misuses their authority over a less powerful person, such as a child.
Abuse takes many forms; physical, sexual and emotional. Neglect, whether physical or emotional, is also considered abuse in Ontario. Having knowledge of abuse occurring and permitting it to happen is also considered abuse under Provincial law.
Sexual abuse is more difficult to identify than physical abuse since indicators of the abuse are not readily seen on the child's body but rather in the behaviour patterns of the child. Though behaviour patterns and physical signs are not conclusive indicators of sexual abuse, one or more could be a sign that a child needs help. When a case of abuse is opened to the agency, it must be dealt with delicately. Our agency has a Child Abuse Specialist on staff to act as a consultant and to give assistance to the assigned caseworker.
The goal of the Children's Aid Society in dealing with suspected child abuse is primarily to protect the child but also to help the family solve the problem that led to the abuse. Physical abuse is any serious, non-accidental injury to a child and may include bruises, welts, cuts, fractures, burns, and/or internal injuries. Improper diet and withholding of food, potentially resulting in severe malnutrition, are also examples of physical abuse. It can be the result of one or two isolated incidents or a series of acts that take place over a long period of time.
Services offered include referral to therapy, witness preparation and crisis counselling. The Simcoe County Sexual Abuse Group Program can be accessed through the Children's Aid Society. Groups are available for victims, parents and offenders. More detailed information on child abuse can be obtained from any Children's Aid office.