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Physical and verbal child abuse knows no social boundaries

Domestic violence where children are the victims is becoming a cause for concern. There are cases of such child abuse, even in prosperous countries.

Many parents have the wrong mindset, trusting in the saying 'Spare the rod and spoil the child'. They think that the more they strike the child, the more obedient the child will be. In fact, this does not work and the child ends up being traumatised physically as well as psychologically.

Studies have found that children who are beaten have a lower feeling of self-esteem and tend to be rebellious.

Adults always underestimate the possible harm of corporal punishment, thinking that since they were beaten when they were young, then it must be okay. A child must grow up in a friendly environment.

Children have a better chance of achieving their potential if they grow up in a family atmosphere, where they are given encouragement.

Corporal punishment is not the only kind of abuse.

Children who are neglected or verbally abused, are also victims. Parents should be there to provide their children with support and advice, helping them to find the right direction in life.

Children who lack parental care are less likely to grow up as mature and stable adults.

If they have been abused as children, some of them may resort to crime.

Words can have more effect than actions. Parents who insult their children will effectively humiliate them and this will affect them psychologically, with long-term negative results.

Traumatised children need to be given a secure environment and psychological help as part of the healing process.

It takes time for them to heal.

It is important for the government to put more resources into helping such children.

There is no point in officials talking about creating a harmonious community if it is not doing enough to achieve this harmony.

In Hong Kong, we must try and eliminate the tragedy of child abuse.

C. Gaia, Kowloon City

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