Verbal abuse can cause permanent damage to children – Georgina Aberese-Ako

The Acting Upper East Regional Director of the Department of Children, Georgina Aberese-Ako, has cautioned parents and caregivers against verbally abusing children, warning that such actions can cause lifelong emotional and psychological damage.

Speaking on the Big Mike Breakfast Show on Tuesday November 11, Aberese-Ako underscored the far-reaching effects of verbal and emotional abuse compared to physical abuse.

“The effects of verbal abuse are more severe than physical abuse. With physical abuse, the pain may fade within a few minutes, but the hurt from verbal or emotional abuse remains forever.”

“Parents must choose their words carefully when speaking to their children. Our words can either build them up or destroy them for life. Let us speak positively and communicate politely.”

She further explained how verbal abuse can negatively affect a child’s confidence and academic performance.

“If a parent tells a child that a dog is better than them, and a teacher later tries to help that child in an area of weakness, the child may think, ‘Even my mother says I’m useless, so why should I bother?’” She noted.

Aberese-Ako also cautioned that perpetrators of child abuse often exploit power, trust, and control to harm their victims. She urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and protect their children from such individuals.

The Regional Director expressed concern about the rising cases of child abuse in the Upper East Region and called for collective action from all stakeholders to curb the trend.

“Child abuse is on the rise in our region. We all have a role to play: parents, teachers, community leaders, and law enforcement. Everyone must get involved.” She emphasised.

Aberese-Ako encouraged the public to promptly report cases of child abuse, especially sexual abuse, to the appropriate authorities to ensure timely intervention and justice for victims.

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