The ethical issue of child abuse

CHILD protection is the duty of every single member of society. Often, however, abuse is alleged or unprovable.

In South Africa, as is the case globally, children of all races and ethnicities experience child abuse in some form; and boys and girls are equally likely to experience some, or even severe, neglect and physical abuse.

The issue of child abuse in our society is at epidemic proportions. One invariably encounters children and teenagers who are secretive, depressed, fearful and do not have friends.

Abused children may have difficulty sleeping, display poor hygiene and are often hostile. Of course, one’s state of poverty, cultural values, or community standards may well be contributing factors to a child’s depressed state.

Physical abuse is often a problem as a child may be beaten or hit with something that harms them.

There is often also sexual and emotional abuse that is perpetrated against children so that a child may be constantly criticised, threatened, or rejected by parents or other family members. Many children also lack support and guidance of any sort. We need to be watchful and alert if we suspect that a child is

being maltreated, or see indications of abuse, and then report such concerns.

The impact of abuse is far bigger and more long-lasting than its immediate visible effects.

There are numerous effects that may be recognised such as developmental stunting, learning disorders, problems creating relationships, very aggressive behaviour and dire depression.

Some prevention strategies could help. For example, indunas assisting in prevention activities such as home visitations and discussions with parents, stressing the crucial need of parents to support and care for their children in their homes and in the wider community.

We clearly need to guide, especially young parents, in developing their parenting skills and recognising the benefits of non-violent discipline methods.

Many parents need to be reminded and understand that they need to meet their child’s emotional, physical, and developmental needs.

There are clearly ethical issues that arise when values are tested, and people need to think through how to balance their contradictory obligations.

We all need to be concerned about child abuse since it arises out of the profound values of nonmaleficence (not harming) and beneficence (helping well-being).

We also need to uphold values such as respect for the autonomy (self-rule) of abused children, and the need to respect all family members in relationships.

Compassion, empathy and sympathy are also important on our side. Where we suspect child abuse is being perpetrated, justice is also important and we need to protect vulnerable children by reporting this to relevant authorities at creches, schools, universities and other places.

* Professor Angelo Nicolaides is the head of department of Philosophy and Applied Ethics at Unizulu