Child Abuse

It's a topic I choose to write about today, as I was just on a panel discussion on a local radio station on the subject.
What is it? I will start by saying that I will divide it into three types:
negligence, sexual abuse and physical abuse.
Negligence can be emotional, physical or medical. This is when the child's emotional needs are not met, or when they are not fed, clothed or housed appropriately. Dirty clothes, hunger or inadequate housing, when it is clear that there are no financial issues, is neglience. In fact, abuse and neglect are not related to social economic status. It happens in the best of neighborhoods as well as in the worst of neighborhoods. Not giving appropriate boudaries to children can also be neglect. Parents are responsible for their children until the age of 18. Not following medical advice can also be abuse.Professionals see most of these cases when parents are divorced or seperated and there is a battle where one parent chooses to not medicate the child because they feel that the child does not "need" the medication.
Sexual abuse is the sexualization of the child. Not just touching, or penetration but also exposure to sexual information such as pornography. Obviously, sexual educational material when used appropriately is not considered abuse.
Physical abuse perhaps is the most obvious. There will be broken bones, bruises etc.
A question many parents have is; is spanking abuse? Ask a therapist and we say, let's try giving consequences and redirecting behavior. Others may believe it is OK. At least in Florida, it is OK.
Leaving marks, such as bruises and broken bones and the like, is abuse.
As the ecomony becomes more challenging and stress levels in families increases, I recommend that parents work on stress management; exercise, attend religious services, visit with supportive family and friends.
When that is not enough, please see a mental health professional.