"Unpredictable" Consequences of Abuse
Our New Year's Resolution for all nannies is to Be the One to protect a child, any child. This year, nannies should be heroes for all children.
Due to the Penn State scandal we posted the predictable signs of abuse of a child. But, there can be a huge difference between expected rational behavior and the actual behavior of a victim of abuse.
Perhaps the most astonishing reaction of a victim of abuse is that the victim becomes an abuser. Whether corporal punishment, verbal abuse, or sexual inappropriateness, one victimized by such actions may commit the same action on others. Simply, abuse begets more abuse.
A scared, desperate child prays to God for God to stop the abuse. Nothing changes so the child experiences a loss in faith.
A victim of abuse may seek protection from harm by joining a gang. Or seek affection by becoming promiscuous. Or seek escape by using drugs. Or give in to shame by engaging in criminal activity.
Ending an abusive relationship is beneficial but does not necessarily stop the cycle of harm caused by abusive behavior. Usually, the emotional pain is more enduring than the physical pain.
Tomorrow: The Nanny's Dilemma
