How Can We Prevent Child Abuse?

Does a week go by without news of some sort of child abuse? It certainly seems like there’s an abusive incident every week.

This past week, my hometown news agencies reported about a 19-year-old man having a sexual relationship with a 12-year-old girl. It appears the girl agreed to have sex and considered the man her boyfriend. How did this adult male believe that his behavior was acceptable? Where are the girl’s parents or guardian?

Other types of abuses are even more common. The abuses include fatalities, neglect, physical injuries, and psychological damage.

How can we prevent child abuse?

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Since 1974, there has been federal legislation intended to support communities in providing programs and services to protect children and strengthen families. In 1982, Congress made a further commitment to identifying and implementing solutions to child abuse by proclaiming National Child Abuse Prevention Week. The next year, the proclamation became a month-long period of recognition.

During April, we can all focus on abusive behavior and stamping out all forms of abuse. Here are some ideas:

• Educate families on preventing abuse and neglect
• Promote positive parenting
• Volunteer for a Guardian ad Litem program and other agencies focused on representing children’s interests
• Mentor a child through an organization like Big Brothers, Big Sisters
• Support child welfare advocates and child abuse legislation