Disturbing statistics show that children who were exposed to any form of violence suffer from long term effects when they grow older. Studies have found that violence does not only create a psychological impact but leaves a physical mark on the child's brain structure.
Preventing exposure to violence in children has now become imperative in view of these latest findings. Violence comes in different forms, and is not only contained in physical abuse that many children suffer at home. It can be in the form of being a witness to a crime. It can be in the form of bullying in school. It can even be brought about by exposure to a weapon.
Sexual violence is also another cause for concern affecting millions of children worldwide. Those who live in conflict-affected areas are also considered as exposed to violence.
According to Good Men Project, the failure of parents and the community to prevent children from being exposed to these types of violence inhibits the child from reaching his full potential. The ramifications of this exposure continue on to adulthood and even after these children already have their families later on.
Domestic violence has been known to cause Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in children, resulting to their inability to function well in society. Victims of bullying have an elevated risk of suffering from psychiatric disorders later on in life. Those who were exposed to sexual violence end up having mental and behavioral issues, including but not limited to PTSD and substance abuse.
Prevention Institute emphasized that violence can be prevented. What is essential is to change underlying conditions in the environment of the child. This must be done at home, in schools and even in the community. This cannot only be done by a single organization with an advocacy for violence prevention, but must be a concerted effort between individuals, the community, and even the government.
In light of the latest statistics showing that one in every two children below 18 years of age experience violence, it has now become a must for certain measures to be put into action to stop this appalling number. Children need to grow up in better conditions, without neglect or deprivation or any hardship which could create a negative impact on the child's brain.
