Dispelling myths about child abuse

  • Published
  • By Shawn Kelley
  • 71st Medical Group Family Advocacy Program
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  In observance of National Child Abuse Awareness Month during April, the Family Advocacy Program would like to correct some common Myths associated with child abuse.

Myth -- It's only abuse if it's violent.
Fact -- Physical abuse is just one type of child abuse. Neglect and emotional abuse can be just as damaging, and since they are more subtle, others are less likely to intervene.

Myth -- Only bad people abuse their children.
Fact -- While it's easy to say that only bad people abuse their children, it's not always so black and white. Not all abusers are intentionally harming their children. Many have been victims of abuse themselves and don't know any other way to parent. Others may be struggling with mental health issues or a substance abuse problem.

Myth -- Child abuse doesn't happen in "good" families.
Fact -- Child abuse doesn't happen only in poor families or bad neighborhoods. It crosses all racial, economic and cultural lines. Sometimes, families who seem to have it all from the outside are hiding a different story behind closed doors.

Myth -- Most child abusers are strangers.
Fact -- While abuse by strangers does happen, most abusers are family members or others close to the family

Myth -- Abused children always grow up to be abusers.
Fact -- It is true that abused children are more likely to repeat the cycle as adults, unconsciously repeating what they experienced as children. On the other hand, many adult survivors of child abuse have a strong motivation to protect their children against what they went through and become excellent parents.

Child abuse can include physical, emotional and sexual abuse as well as neglect issues. Physical abuse can be excessive punishment that leaves bruises and marks. Neglect is not providing for a child's basic needs, such as food, clothing, shelter, and medical care.

A pattern of yelling, screaming and humiliating a child, even if you do not physically touch them, is emotional abuse. All types of child abuse and neglect leave lasting scars. Some of these scars might be physical, but emotional scarring has long lasting effects throughout life. It can damage a child's sense of self, ability to have healthy relationships and ability to function at home, work and school.

It is everyone's responsibility to be aware of the signs of abuse and know what they can do to prevent it. If you would like more information about the symptoms of child abuse, how to report suspected abuse or to learn some protective factors that families can put into practice when parenting stresses arise, contact Vance's Family Advocacy Program, 580-213-7419.