18 L’Association de la prévention du crime du N-B Inc • developmental delay, headaches, stomach aches, bed wetting and soiling, eating disorders, selfmutilation or burning, thoughts of suicide, dissociation, inappropriate sexual behaviour; • extremely low self-esteem, difficulty trusting others, difficulty in problem-solving, relationship problems, high levels of anger and aggression, violent when angry, a victim or perpetrator of violence in dating. ACTTO HELP It is usually very difficult for children who are abused or neglected to report the problem to anyone.That is why it is important to be aware of the signs of child maltreatment and know what to do about it. Everyone has a duty to report child abuse, whether a child tells you about it or you have reasonable suspicion. It’s the law. If a child tells you about abuse, believe him or her. Listen openly and calmly. Reassure the child and be supportive.Tell the child that what happened is not her or his fault.Write down what the child tells you, using the child’s exact words, and contact your local police or child welfare agency. There are also ways to help abused children heal: allow them to break the silence on the violence in their lives, increase their ability to protect themselves physically and psychologically, strengthen their self-esteem, and provide a safe and fun environment where they can have positive experiences. If you are a parent, family member or caregiver who abuses, you can get help for yourself and for the children. It’s never too late to stop family violence. Start today. www.phac-aspc.gc.ca THE EFFECTS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ON CHILDREN (continued)
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