Child abuse: Poverty, mental health to blame, says expert

New Straits Times

6 days ago

GEORGE TOWN: The disturbing revelation of over 4,000 child abuse cases in Penang since 2010 highlights a critical societal issue that warrants urgent attention, according to a criminologist.
Universiti Sains Malaysia's Datuk Dr P. Sundramoorthy said that identifying the root causes behind this rise was essential for the development of effective prevention and intervention strategies.
He said that economic hardship played a significant role in contributing to child abuse.
"Families facing poverty and unemployment often endure elevated stress levels, which can result in neglect or abuse. The Family Stress Model explains how economic disadvantage can lead to psychological distress in caregivers, which in turn affects parenting behaviours and increases the risk of child maltreatment," he told the New Straits Times.
Dr Sundramoorthy said that parental mental health issues — such as depression, anxiety and personality disorders — were closely associated with instances of abuse.
"Parents struggling with these issues may find it difficult to regulate their emotions, potentially leading to harmful behaviour towards their children.
"A lack of parenting knowledge and skills may also result in inappropriate disciplinary actions and neglect. Without proper guidance, some parents may unintentionally harm their children, which underscores the importance of accessible parenting education programmes.
"Family instability, including divorce and domestic violence, creates environments in which children are more vulnerable to abuse. The absence of a parent or continuous conflict within the household can lead to both emotional and physical harm."
He added that parental substance abuse — including alcohol and drugs — impaired judgement and increases the likelihood of abusive behaviour.
Dr Sundramoorthy said that external stressors, such as overcrowded living conditions and a lack of social support, exacerbated the risks of child maltreatment.
"In short, the complex nature of child abuse calls for a holistic approach that tackles economic, psychological, and social contributors. Providing support such as mental health services, parenting education, and financial aid can significantly reduce these risks.
"Community involvement and the robust enforcement of child protection laws are equally vital in ensuring the safety and well-being of children," he said.
State Social Development, Welfare and Non-Islamic Affairs Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim said that the Penang Social Welfare Department had recorded a total of 4,080 child abuse cases since 2010, including 201 reported between January and April this year.
Of these, 113 cases involved girls and 88 boys. The reports encompass physical, sexual, and emotional abuse across all five districts in the state.
The data reflects a long-standing trend in which girls are disproportionately affected by sexual abuse.