[Note to readers: This article contains sensitive content that may be triggering to some individuals.]

Protecting Our Most Vulnerable:

According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), violent crimes against children are a growing concern in the United States (FBI, n.d.). Children are particularly vulnerable to violence, and as a result, it is important to understand the nature of violent crimes committed against them. This article will explore the different types of violent crimes that children are most commonly victims of and discuss the effects of these crimes on both the children and their families.

One of the most common types of violent crimes committed against children is sexual abuse. According to the FBI (n.d.), approximately 1 in 7 girls and 1 in 25 boys will be victims of sexual abuse before they reach the age of 18. Sexual abuse can have severe and lasting impacts on children, including trauma, anxiety, depression, and even suicide (FBI, n.d.).

Physical abuse is another type of violent crime that children are commonly victimized by. This can include hitting, slapping, or punching, and can cause both physical and emotional harm to the child (FBI, n.d.). The FBI (n.d.) reports that children who are physically abused are more likely to have behavioral problems, such as aggression, and may struggle with interpersonal relationships later in life.

Child abduction is another type of violent crime that can have serious consequences for the child and their family. According to the FBI (n.d.), there were 421,394 reports of missing children in 2019 alone. While many of these cases involve children who are eventually found, others result in tragedy. The long-term psychological effects of child abduction on both the child and their family can be devastating (FBI, n.d.).

Finally, children are also at risk of being victims of violent crimes such as bullying, cyberbullying, and harassment. These crimes can have a significant impact on a child’s mental health and well-being (FBI, n.d.). It is important for parents and caregivers to be aware of the signs of these types of crimes and to take appropriate action to protect their children.

In conclusion, violent crimes against children are a serious problem in the United States. Sexual abuse, physical abuse, child abduction, and other violent crimes can have lasting impacts on both the children and their families. By understanding the nature of these crimes and taking steps to prevent them, we can work to create a safer and more secure environment for all children.

References:

Federal Bureau of Investigation. (n.d.). Violent Crimes Against Children. Retrieved from https://www.fbi.gov/investigate/violent-crime/vcac