Questions & Answers

Q: What does the law say the job of a parent is?

A: Parents are required to provide shelter, food, clothing, medical care, and education. They have the right to make all decisions for you about those things including where you go to school, who your doctor is, where you live and where you go to church.

Q: How long are my parents responsible for my care?

A: Parents are responsible for the care of their children until the child reaches the age of majority, which is usually 18 years old.

Q: What is child abuse?

A: When parents don’t do their job as it is described above, it could be considered child abuse. It can be physical like hitting and hurting. It can be neglect, like not taking you to the doctor when you need to go or not making sure you go to school. Often in cases of child abuse, your local police and/or the Department of Social Services has to get involved in order to help the child who is being abused and the rest of the family.

Q: Does it happen often?

A: Child abuse happens more often than we think. Sometimes parents don’t know what their responsibilities are or how to do what they are required to do.

Q: How do I know if it’s child abuse?

A: You are smarter than you think. Usually when something is wrong with the way you’re being treated a “little voice” tells you that there is a problem or you feel uncomfortable about the treatment.

Q: What do I do if I or someone I know is being abused?

A: When you get that uncomfortable feeling about yourself or a friend, it is important to tell an adult who can help. Don’t try to fix it yourself. Always let an adult handle it.

Q: Who can I tell about abuse?

A: Tell a trusted adult. This is any adult who you feel cares about you and will protect you. Some examples are teachers, police officers, adult family members, guidance counselors.

Q: Where can I get more information?

A: You can ask your teacher, guidance counselor, or you can call or email Helping Hands?