Abuse and its Impact on the Mental Wellbeing of Children

Abstract

Children are an important asset for any nation. In the human life span, the childhood period is considered as the most significant, since it is the foundation period not only for their future but the future of nation as well. Children are the building blocks of a nation, they shape the particular nation. The growth and development of nation depends on its children. For the true prosperity of a nation the children should be raised in stress free environment. A safe and secure environment is a prerequisite for the true growth and development of a child. Child abuse or maltreatment of children takes a toll on the mental wellbeing of the child. This in the long run makes the society sick and maladjusted. The World Health Organization (WHO)defines child abuse and child maltreatment as "all forms of physical and/or emotional ill-treatment, sexual abuse, neglect or negligent treatment or commercial or other exploitation, resulting in actual or potential harm to the child's health, survival, development or dignity in the context of a relationship of responsibility, trust or power. The ever growing complexities of life and the dramatic changes brought about by socio-economic transitions in India have played a major role in increasing the vulnerability of children to different forms of abuse. However, in India, and in other countries, there has been no understanding of the extent, magnitude and trend of the issue.