Abstract:
In this investigation the researcher described the life-world of the abused child from a psychopedagogical perspective. Certain guidelines were established according to which accountable support could be instituted to meet the needs of the abused child. There is much evidence to show that child abuse is not only a lamentable and dramatic expression of injury to the mental, physical and social health of children, but is, more importantly, a reflection of the underlying disintegration of family life. Child abuse includes a spectrum of insults, ranging from the extremes of infant rape and murder to the more subtle and insidious denial of love. From a psychopedagogical perspective the abused child finds himself in a situation of dysfunctional education mainly because he goes through the difficult road to adulthood without the assistance and guidance of a responsible parent or adult. This results in the psychic life of the abused child being under-actualised. The need for action is urgent. Many of our children continue to suffer severe and avoidable deprivations; many more fail to achieve their optimum potential. Much of their pain, so often hidden, is our responsibility as "grown ups". In the light of the findings of this research, the researcher recommended that educational programmes directed at school children, parents, parents-to-be and professionals, are essential for the prevention of child abuse.
