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Story: 

New research warns that shouting at children and using hurtful language can be as damaging as physical or sexual abuse, leaving young people at greater risk of self-harm, drug use, and incarceration. The study, published in the journal Child Abuse & Neglect, characterizes this behavior as “adult-to-child perpetration of verbal abuse,” encompassing shouting, yelling, denigrating, and verbal threats. Childhood verbal abuse is reportedly more prevalent than physical or sexual abuse, affecting up to 40% of children. UK research indicates that those who experience verbal abuse are nearly twice as likely to use cannabis and at double the risk of ending up in jail compared to those who do not. Experts have raised concerns about the extent of verbal abuse and have established a charity, Words Matter, with the support of organizations like the NSPCC, Save The Children, Place2Be, and the Anna Freud centre. This study underscores the need to address verbal abuse’s profound and lasting impact on children’s mental health and well-being.

Senses (Child Safeguarding and Protection principles):

1. Verbal Abuse Recognition: Child safeguarding should encompass the recognition of verbal abuse as a form of mistreatment that can be as harmful as physical or sexual abuse.
2. Awareness and Prevention: Parents and caregivers need to be made aware of the impact of their words on children and should be encouraged to communicate with offspring more positively.
3. Early Intervention: Identifying and addressing verbal abuse should be part of child protection efforts to prevent long-lasting psychological and emotional distress.
4. Educational Initiatives: Educational institutions and organizations can play a crucial role in raising awareness about the consequences of verbal abuse and promoting positive communication.

Stones (Child Safeguarding and Protection Lessons for Parents, Government, and Society):

1. Parental Education: Parents should receive education on effective communication strategies that avoid verbal abuse and promote healthy relationships with their children.
2. Government Policy: Governments should include verbal abuse prevention and recognition in child protection policies and educational programs.
3. Community Support: Society should support initiatives like Words Matter that aim to raise awareness about verbal abuse and provide resources for those affected.
4. Early Intervention Programs: The establishment of early intervention programs can help children who have experienced verbal abuse receive the necessary support and counseling.
5. Mental Health Services: Adequate mental health services should be accessible to children dealing with the psychological consequences of verbal abuse.
6. Educational Campaigns: Public awareness campaigns can educate society about the seriousness of verbal abuse and its long-term effects on children’s well-being

In light of the research highlighting the detrimental effects of verbal abuse on children, it is imperative to acknowledge it as a significant child safeguarding concern. Efforts should focus on early intervention, promoting positive communication, and implementing policies to prevent verbal abuse, thereby creating a safer environment for children’s emotional and psychological well-being. Supporting initiatives like Words Matter and increasing awareness about the lasting impact of hurtful words are crucial steps toward protecting children from the consequences of verbal abuse

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/