It has been a long time now we are hearing stories of a child
being abused, either emotionally, mentally, physically or any other way.
Unfortunately, the case remains top of the town for days, weeks or months but
eventually it does not last longer. We as a society are so immune to such acts
now that people do marches, raise voices then sit back after some time, the
question rises why?
What are the reasons behind this? Maybe because lack of support from government
or high authorities. There are numerous stories in which the culprit is not
given punishment or they escape from the case by giving money or by having
contacts with big people. Culprits are so fearless or reckless now that they
don’t even think about the consciousness they would face after the attempt. The
other reason could be parents or elders not teaching the child about it. Awaring
children about this act can solve so many issues and help in demolishing the act
as well but the bitter we face that speaking up about this consider a matter of
shame or embarrassment in our society. The bond between a child or parent is not
strong enough so a child finds it awkward or hesitate sharing it. They most of
the time fear how their parent would react. In most cases this act is done by a
trustworthy member/person it gets difficult for a child to convey fearing that
whether they would be listened or not.
Lack of confidence in a child makes him or her a victim. In certain cases, if a
child speaks up, he or she are instructed to not share it with anyone and
unfortunately no action takes place against the act. Depression can also be the
reason of child abuse, if we talk about Pakistan particularly, poverty leads
people towards depression because people are unable to meet their economical
needs. Parent/guardians usually don’t divert attention towards domestic staff at
home. Many cases report in which the culprit turns out to be trustworthy
caretaker.
The list goes on and on of the reason. This could be stopped if we bring change
or guide ourselves first. In my opinion, conducting sessions with children or
giving them the knowledge of good and bad touch. Incase if a child becomes a
victim now he/she respond to the situation by rescuing themselves and sharing it
with closest person.
By: Syeda Anam Fatima