Child Abuse
- Child Abuse Introduction
- Forms of Child Abuse
- Basic Parenting Skills
- Reporting Abuse
- Abuse and the Law
- Differing Cultural Norms For Child Rearing
- Prevention of Child Abuse
- For More Information
- Web Links
- Synonyms and Keywords
- References
- Authors and Editors
- Related child abuse article:
Child Abuse - on MedicineNet
Child Abuse Introduction
Child abuse is defined as a variety of abnormal behaviors directed against children. It can take many forms. Child abuse in general is a psychological problem or perversion of the abuser. The abuser is referred to as the perpetrator of abuse.
- Child abuse includes the following conditions:
- Child sexual abuse
- Pedophilia
- Physical abuse
- Child neglect
- Emotional neglect
- Failure to thrive
- Munchausen by proxy syndrome
The descriptions of child abuse in the next section are intended for people who have questions about abuse, what it is, and how it may present itself. Although some cases of child abuse are obvious, many are not. Early recognition of child abuse tendencies and intervention at the point of recognition is the only way to avoid the liability of criminal prosecution.
These descriptions may help you identify abuse in its various forms. You will also find information about what you can do if you observe child abuse or if you are a parent dealing with problems that are straining your capacity to cope with the parenting experience.
If you think you are acting in an abusive way or are having a difficult time with your children or yourself as a parent, you may have identified a tendency to be abusive. These tendencies can include the following:
- Excessive and loud verbal confrontation
- More corporal punishment than is needed
- Sexual feelings or feelings of anger about children that you sense are wrong and that you have not acted out yet
Tendencies can be treated more effectively than the frank abusive behavior that can evolve from a tendency. You will want to seek help early to avoid the tendency evolving into a criminal act of abuse.
If you observe child abuse in others, you are obligated to report the abuse to the police or medical authorities.
Next: Forms of Child Abuse »
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Child Abuse
Domestic Violence Introduction
Domestic violence is a well-known and often-used term. Although it may describe various violent relationships, such as child abuse, elder abuse, it is most commonly applied to an intimate relationship between two adults in which one partner uses a pattern of assault and intimidating acts to assert power and control over the other partner. Only recently recognized as a major public health issue, domestic violence has a long, dark past and is firmly entrenched in many societies. Although domestic violence usually includes violent attacks, it is not limited to physical acts of violence, but may include psychological, economic, and sexual abuse as well as attempts to isolate the partner.
History
To fully understand the roots of domestic violence in our society, it is helpful to review some historical points. Unfortunately, abuse of an intimate partner has been a part of many cultures for many generations.
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Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine
Child Abuse & Neglect: Physical Abuse »
Physical abuse, a subset of child abuse, is defined in various ways by different states.
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