Consequences of Stress on Children's Development

Any type of stressor can be harmful for a child and their development.  I chose to focus on physical abuse and the affect it has on young children.  I have a friend who experienced physical abuse at the hands of his stepfather when he was younger.  When my friend told me the story of how he was abused by his stepfather I cringed at the thought of someone hurting a child, especially in the manner he did.  My friend’s stepfather used to push him, severely beat him, and talk foul to him whenever his mother was not around.  One day my friend’s stepfather took him to a jazz club at the age of 5 and asked him to sit still.  My friend was only five years old and at that age children do not want to sit still for long.  My friend said he kept moving because he was growing impatient.  His stepfather got mad and made him pull his pants down in front of everyone, as he beat him with a clothes hanger. 

My friend is still coping with this traumatic experience in his life.  Because of it he was reserved growing up and unable to trust others.  He was bullied because of it and is now going to therapy to cope and deal with the memory of his childhood.  His strength is truly an inspiration to me. 

According to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, Mexico is one of the highest ranked countries for physical abuse of children.  Mexico is also ranked high in homicides of children related to abuse.  The Chamber of Deputies is striving to minimize this problem by establishing severe punishments to those who commit crimes against young children.