ABSTRACT
Child abuse and neglect can take many different forms, from frightening children by yelling at them to severe acts of assault or sexual abuse. Whatever form it takes, however, it can cause considerable psychological harm. The abuse of children is often secretive and this means that it may go on undetected for years, causing serious long-term emotional damage. Teachers have regular day-to-day contact with children, so if the problem of child abuse and neglect is to be tackled successfully, they must listen to children, be alert to the signs of abuse and be aware of its effects. In addition, they have a legal obligation to instigate child protection procedures in cases where abuse or neglect is suspected.
