K3S251: Social factors can lead to the abuse of a child. If a parent has an addiction to drugs or alcohol, they may not put their child’s welfare first. They may be unable to meet the needs of their child because they are unable to meet their own needs. When a parent has an addiction they may go to places which are unsuitable for children. They may take the children with them to these places, or they may leave them at home alone whilst they go. They may allow unsuitable people into their homes, such as other drug addicts or drug dealers and these people may come into contact with their child. The parents may use drugs or alcohol in the home and children may be very distressed at seeing their parents under the influence of these things. The parent’s judgement may be seriously impaired whilst under the influence of drugs or alcohol and they may not have their child’s best interests at heart. If drugs or alcohol are kept in the home the child may ingest them accidently or by copying what they have seen their parents doing. Sometimes drug addicts can resort to crime as a method of funding their habit. This also puts the child at risk.
K3D254:If children are assertive, and have a high level of self confidence and self esteem they are more able to stop someone from abusing them or to tell someone about it. You can help children by teaching them what to do in emergency situations, how to recognise and express their feelings and what to do if they are being bullied. You can teach them that they have the right to privacy and to say no to being touched, kissed or any physical action which makes them uncomfortable. One good way of doing this is by teaching them the ‘swimming costume rule’ – children can be taught that they should not be touched in areas that would be covered by their swimming costume. Children should learn what to do if they are lost or are approached by a stranger. You should encourage them to recognise and express their own feelings and that they do not have to keep secrets unless they want to. You should teach them that if they are being bullied they should tell someone and to resist by shouting ‘no’ and sticking together with friends
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