Child Abuse is often referred to as the “unkindest cut of all.”  As a child, your parent is the person that you instinctively trust, depend on, and seek comfort from in times of need. When the very person that you trust the most also causes you physical or emotional pain, it is the greatest betrayal of trust imaginable. The “unkindest cut of all.”

Acording to the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (1974), child abuse is defined as: “The physical or mental injury, sexual abuse, negligent treatment, or maltreatment of a child under the age of eighteen by a person responsible for the child’s welfare.” It is important to note that child abuse also includes harsh punishments, threats of harm, constant criticisms, neglect of attention, and failure to provide support and encouragement for the child’s efforts. 

In recent years, domestic violence – physical violence or ongoing conflict between parents – is now recognized as a form of child abuse. During stages of development, children internalize the behaviors and attitudes of each parent, as well as the relationship between their parents. Therefore, the healthy development of a child depends on the quality of the relationship between the child’s caretakers.        

Parents are responsible to feed, clothe, shelter their children, as well as provide for the physical and emotional well-being of the child. Additionally, the expression “quality time” has profound meaning for the child’s development. Quality time includes giving full attention to the child; recognizing the child as a separate human being with their own thoughts and feelings; providing approval and encouragement for the child; maintaining eye contact; showing genuine interest in the child’s interests and activities; and of course – putting away your cell phone when with your child!