Child Abuse Awareness Month

  • Published
  • By Dennis Van Hook, MSW. LCSW
  • Family Advocacy Outreach Manager
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  Each week, more than 50,000 cases of suspected child abuse and neglect are reported in the United States. In 2006, almost a million cases were substantiated. In Montana alone, there were 1,674 victims. Most victims are young children whose abusers are one or both parents. Child abuse is a very serious issue with dire effects on the growth and development of children that will last a lifetime if not treated properly.

Children suffer from physical, sexual and emotional abuse, and neglect every day. Though you may not see the bruises, burns, or broken bones, you can see the child who seems withdrawn, acts cruely to others and avoids of those who abuse them. Although abuse may some times be hard to identify, each has its own set of signs.

Neglect can take place physically, emotionally and in education. Signs of physical abuse are injury itself, whether it be a burn, bruise or cut. Sexual and emotional abuse are harder to identify. Sexual abuse consists of fondling and other sexual acts, indecent exposure and commercial exploitation through prostitution or pornographic materials. Emotional abuse includes behavior that impairs a child's emotional development and sense of self-worth, including constant criticism, rejection, and withholding love and support.

The goal of child abuse prevention is simple - to stop child abuse and neglect form happening in the first place. The best way to do this is to support and educate families; give parents the skills and resources they need. Through prevention activities, such as parenting classes and home visitation programs, many parents find the help they need. They are able to develop their parenting skills, understand the benefits of non-violent discipline and meet their needs. When children do come forward, they need to feel that people believe them and can help them. To report a possible case of abuse, contact the Family Advocacy Office at 731-2161 or the Command Post at 731-3801 after hours to contact a Family Advocacy professional. For off-base incidents, contact the Department of Public Health and Human Services hotline at 1-866-820-5437.

The Family Advocacy Office is hosting their prevention efforts by an informational display in the front lobby of the clinic. They also offer home visitation programs and parenting classes that help parents develop their parenting skills, understand the benefits of non-violent discipline techniques, and understand and meet their child's needs.