What to do when you know a child is being mistreated?
By justagurl
@justagurl (42)
United States
February 8, 2007 3:34pm CST
I used to be friends with this women that has 6 kids, 2 of her own and four are her step kids. Well I have seen her treat the four step kids really badly. One of the oldest boys actually got so upset that he tryed to hurt him self. The social workers have been to there house several times and nothing happend because the kids wouldn't tell athorities what was going on. So I am kinda stuck. If I do try to help by reporting the abuse and the kids wont talk then there is nothing I can do. But if I don't and one of them get badly hurt then it would be my fault because I didn't do anything??? What should I do?
2 responses
@emarie (5442)
• United States
8 Feb 07
yes if there are visible marks on the children, then you should document them. they're probably too scared to talk if they are getting abused which is why most children need someone elses help. if you've witnessed these abuse yourself, then you can tell. is there a child abuse hotline in your area. i know i've heard of it, where you can report children getting abused. just keep an eye on them and also, have you tried talking to their father as well? maybe he doesn't know about it.
1 person likes this
@mom_of_2 (398)
• Canada
4 Mar 07
How frusterating. If I were you I would just document everything you witness and keep on reporting it. Another option would be to talk to the children...without accusing the step mom, or sounding like your preasuring the children... just remind them that if they ever need someone to talk to you will be glad to listen. Let them know that no matter what its about...school, friends, or ANYTHING. If these children are in school maybe you could approach the teacher. I realize they wouldn't be able to discuss the child with you but you would be putting a "bug' in their ear and maybe the teacher would have an approach to get the child to open up. Don't give up
