Child abuse is a problem throughout society. Can it, will it, and does it happen in our community? Let's take a look at some startling facts.
Reports indicate that in 2004 alone, 699 of rape victims reported to Michigan's Uniform Crime Report were under the age of 10. The average age of alleged victims in sexual assault cases were 10 years old. Close family members abuse most victims. This closeness increases the child's resistance to reporting abuse. Younger children are more suggestible than older children. In general, once children reach the age of 10, they are no more suggestible than adults.
In 1998, the American Academy of Pediatrics issued a position declaring that, "The abuse of women is a pediatric issue." This statement made a strong case for recognizing domestic violence in child health care settings. However, it did not offer specific guidelines for screening and response, or discuss the policy and practice dilemmas that arise when child health providers implement screening and response protocols.
There have been hundreds of studies on the effects of violence on children. A dangerous risk for children who live in homes where there is violence is that they become direct victims of abuse. In 30 to 60 percent of those families affected by violence, children are also directly abused.
Consider the short and long-term effects of child abuse. Remember, April is "Child Abuse Prevention" month. Don't let it happen here. Speak up and speak out for these young people. They are our future. You can make a difference.
Joyce Siegal
Victim Services Advocate
