CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT
Child neglect and abuse can be defined as any act by the parent or the caregiver that
results to either death, serious physical injury or even emotional harm to the child (Child Welfare
Information Gateway, 2013) Child abuse and neglect displays the failure of the parent or the
caregiver to take the responsibilities of protecting and taking care of the child. There exist
different forms of child abuse which is not limited to physical abuse, emotional abuse, drugs and
substance abuse, sexual abuse and even abandonment (Child Welfare Information Gateway,
2013) Child neglect refers to the failure of the parent or the caregiver to provide the basic needs
of the child such as providing food, shelter, education, clothing and protection.
Regarding Anne's case, there are clear instances of child abuse and neglect. First of all, Anne's
mother seems not to be bothered about the bruises present in Anne's legs and hands. She does not
help Anne in any way, for instance, by giving her first aid or taking her to the hospital despite
Anne claiming that she falls on the field. I would have expected Anne's mother, if she was
responsible, to be the first person who discovered the bruises on her daughter's legs and hands
before the teacher did so. Another instance of child abuse and neglect portrays on Anne's dirty
and torn clothing. This is total child abuse and neglect of parental duties! She is just ten years
old, and we don't expect her to be doing the laundry duties herself. This also shows that the
parents do not have time to check on the progress and well-being of Anne. Anne's mother
blames her for the bruises and goes ahead to defend herself, claiming that Anne is clumsy, lazy,
and lies to get attention. Anne staying beside her mother and failing to make eye contact or utter
a single word is clear evidence of emotional abuse.
There exist different risk factors in Anne’s family that contribute to abuse. The first risk factor
can be attributed to the mother’s intoxicated state. The mother seems to be an alcoholic who has
