Expert says child neglect is major concern
Registered psychologist and youth and child specialist, Dr Bongani Springbok of Tzaneen, says child neglect is failure by a parent or primary caregiver to provide basic needs such as medical care and supervision to the degree that the child’s health, safety, and well-being are subjected to harm or risk.
Child neglect is one of the biggest social ails in the Mopani district. National Child Protection Week was celebrated from May 29 to June 5. “Many caregivers have resorted to giving other minors the responsibility to look after their younger siblings,” Springbok says. “According to the law, a child is between the ages 0-18 years, so it does not matter if a 17-year-old is looking after their 9-year-old sibling, it is still considered child neglect.
“The 17-year-old is still a child him or herself, hence they are not always able to take care of or monitor the movements of the younger child.” Springbok adds that children of about a year old are very vulnerable because they are not in a position to communicate. Parents need to be extra vigilant of their child’s movements at that age and be aware of their whereabouts to prevent harm to the child.
She says sexual assault is a major problem in the region and unfortunately, most of them go unreported, especially when a family member or a prominent community member is involved. “Many people don’t report these kinds of crimes. The sad part is the damage that is done, mentally, physically, and behaviourally to these kids. “The younger victims sometimes develop symptoms such as mild autism, and insomnia, they don’t know who to trust and their physical development is disturbed,” she says.
Also read: Child Protection Week: A call to end violence against children
“Teenagers are usually too scared to report incidences, because of the fear of rejection and not being believed by family and friends, with some resorting to negative behaviour getting involved with alcohol and drugs, just to numb the pain,” she says. Her advice to parents and youngsters is to always report any kind of abuse to the police, social workers (at schools and clinics), or an adult who will believe them. Children or adults wanting to report child abuse-related matters can also call the Childline toll-free line 0800 055 555 available 24 hours a day.
