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Child abuse and neglect, also known as child maltreatment is defined by Federal and State laws.  The Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) set the standards for defining child maltreatment.  CAPTA defines child maltreatment or child abuse and neglect as, “any recent act or failure to act on the part of a parent or caretaker which results in death, serious physical or emotional harm, sexual abuse or exploitation; or an act or failure to act which presents an imminent risk of serious harm.”

Child abuse is doing something or failing to do something that results in harm to a child or puts a child at risk of harm.  Child abuse can be physical, sexual or emotional.  Neglect, or not providing for a child’s needs, is also a form of abuse.  Most abused children suffer greater emotional than physical damage.  An abused child may become depressed.  He or she may withdraw, think of suicide or become violent.  An older child may use drugs or alcohol, try to run away or abuse others.  Child abuse is a serious problem.  If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, call the police.  If you a victim of child abuse or are inquiring on behalf of a friend or family member who has suffered child abuse, contact the child abuse lawyers at The Law Offices of Eugene K. Hollander to confidentially discuss the claim.

The earlier abused children get help, the greater chance they have to heal and break the cycle rather than perpetuating it.  There are several different types of child abuse:

• Constant belittling, shaming, and humiliating a child.
• Calling names and makes negative comparisons to others.
• Telling a child he or she is “no good,” “worthless,” “bad,” or “a mistake.”
• Frequent yelling, threatening, or bullying.
• Ignoring or rejecting a child.
• Limited physical contact (no hugs, kisses, or other signs of affection).
• Exposing a child to violence or abuse.

Child neglect is a very common type of child abuse.  It is a pattern of failing to provide for a child’s basic needs, whether it be adequate food, clothing, hygiene, or supervision.  Child neglect is not always easily recognizable.  Sometimes a parent might become physically or mentally unable to care for a child and other times, alcohol or drug abuse may seriously impair judgment and the ability to keep a child safe.  Often times older children do not show outward signs of neglect and even take on the role of the parent.  Regardless, neglected children are not getting their physical and emotional needs met.

All children are vulnerable because of their ages and sizes, but the most vulnerable are those who are subjected to physically and psychologically toxic environments.  The Law Offices of Eugene K. Hollander is experienced in handling a wide variety of child abuse cases.  Mr. Hollander, a former prosecutor of Cook County, will help represent you with your child abuse claim.  Take action in your case by contacting a trusted legal representative who can provide insight and understanding while protecting your rights.  Call us today at 312-425-9100.