CARIBBEAN SECONDARY EDUCATION CERTIFICATE

SCHOOL-BASED ASSESSEMENT

CANDIDATE NAME: Cassie Paul

CANDIDATE NUMBER: 0900470801
CENTRE NAME: Saint Stanislaus College
CENTRE NUMBER: 090047
SUBJECT: English Language
NAME OF TEACHER: Miss Elona Frank
YEAR OF EXAMINATION: 2025
TERRITORY: Guyana
TOPIC: The Impact of Child Abuse on Individuals and Society

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION 3

SMALL GROUP ACTIVITIES 4

PLAN OF INVESTIGATION 5

MEDIA #1 6

MEDIA #2 10

MEDIA #3 11

REFLECTION #1 12

REFLECTION #2 13

REFLECTION #3 14

PLAN OF ORAL PRESENTATION 15

ORAL PRESENTATION 16

WRITTEN REPORT 18

BIBLIOGRAPHY 19

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 INTRODUCTION

Abuse is the mistreatment of individuals, causing physical, emotional, psychological, or sexual

harm. It manifests in various forms, including domestic abuse, child abuse, drug abuse, sexual
abuse, and even bullying. Perpetrators often exert power and control over their victims, leading
to long-lasting trauma and detrimental effects on mental and physical health. Recognizing and
addressing abuse is crucial for promoting safety and well-being. Preventative measures,
education, and supportive resources are essential in combating abuse and aiding recovery for
victims, fostering a society where respect and protection of all individuals are paramount.

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 SMALL GROUP ACTIVITIES

NAME TOPIC

The Impact of Child Abuse on

Cassie Paul
Individuals and Society

Julia Badal Drug Abuse and Addiction

Zaki Ishmael Domestic Abuse

Name of Student: Cassie Paul

Date: …………………………

PLAN OF INVESTIGATION

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Our group selected the topic of “Abuse,” and I chose the sub-topic, “The Impact of Child Abuse
on Individuals and Society” because it allows for a broad and in-depth exploration. I selected this
topic for three key reasons. First, understanding the effects of child abuse is crucial for raising
awareness and fostering prevention efforts. Second, exploring this issue will help me expand my
vocabulary, improve my comprehension, and strengthen my writing skills. Third, studying child
abuse’s impact on both individuals and society will allow me to engage in meaningful
discussions and contribute to positive change.

To gather relevant information, I used three sources that provide valuable insights into this issue.
The article Child Abuse and Neglect by Melinda Smith, M.A., Lawrence Robinson, and Jeanne
Segal, Ph.D. (February 5, 2024) examines different types of child abuse and their consequences.
The video What Is Child Abuse and Neglect? Types, Symptoms, Treatment and Diagnosis by
Medical Centric (September 7, 2022) visually explains the signs and effects of abuse, making it
easier to understand. Lastly, the audio Child Abuse – What You Need to Know by Rehealthify
(July 1, 2014) presents key facts in a concise format, reinforcing my knowledge on the topic.

These sources help build a comprehensive understanding of child abuse and its impact on
individuals and society. Through this research, I aim to enhance my academic skills while
contributing to greater awareness of this critical issue. By learning more about child abuse, I can
engage in informed discussions and advocate for prevention and support strategies.

MEDIA #1

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Article: By Melinda Smith, M.A., Lawrence Robinson and Jeanne Segal, Ph.D. (February 5,
2024)

Entitled: Child Abuse and Neglect

Child Abuse and Neglect

The warning signs of child abuse and neglect aren't always obvious. But by learning to recognize
the signs of a problem, you can make a huge difference in a child’s life.
By Melinda Smith, M.A., Lawrence Robinson and Jeanne Segal, Ph.D.
Last updated or reviewed on February 5, 2024

What is child abuse and neglect?

Child abuse isn’t just about black eyes. While physical abuse is shocking due to the marks it
leaves, not all signs of child abuse are as obvious. Ignoring a child’s needs, putting them in
unsupervised, dangerous situations, exposing them to sexual situations, or making them feel
worthless or stupid are also forms of child abuse and neglect—and they can leave deep, lasting
scars on kids.

Regardless of the type of abuse, the result is serious emotional harm. But there is help available.
If you suspect a child is suffering from abuse or neglect, it’s important to speak out. By catching
the problem as early as possible, both the child and the abuser can get the help they need.

To start, it’s important to separate the myths from the facts about child abuse and neglect:
Myths and facts about child abuse and neglect
Myth: It’s only abuse if it’s violent.
Fact: Physical abuse is just one type of child abuse. Child neglect, or sexual and emotional abuse
can inflict just as much damage. Since the signs are not always as obvious, other people may be
less likely to intervene.

Myth: Only bad people abuse their children.

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Fact: Not all abusive parents or guardians intentionally harm their children. Many have been
victims of abuse themselves and don’t know any other way to parent. Others may be struggling
with mental health issues or substance abuse problems.

Myth: Abuse doesn’t happen in “good” families.

Fact: Abuse and neglect doesn’t only happen in poor families or bad neighborhoods. These
behaviors cross all racial, economic, and cultural lines. Sometimes, families who seem to have it
all from the outside are hiding a different story behind closed doors.

Myth: Most child abusers are strangers.

Fact: While abuse by strangers does happen, most abusers are family members or others close to
the family.

Myth: Abused children always grow up to be abusers.

Fact: It is true that abused children are more likely to repeat the cycle as adults, unconsciously
repeating what they experienced as children. On the other hand, many adult survivors of child
abuse have a strong motivation to protect their children against what they went through and
become excellent parents.

Effects of child abuse and neglect

All types of abuse and neglect leave lasting scars. Some of these scars might be physical, but
emotional scarring has long lasting effects throughout life, damaging a child’s sense of self, their
future relationships, and ability to function at home, work and school.

The effects of abuse and neglect on a child include:

Lack of trust and relationship difficulties. If you can’t trust your parents, who can you trust?
Without this base, it is very difficult to learn to trust people or know who is trustworthy. This can
lead to difficulty maintaining relationships in adulthood. It can also lead to unhealthy
relationships because the adult doesn’t know what a good relationship is.
Core feelings of being “worthless.” If you’ve been told over and over again as a child that you
are stupid or no good, it is very difficult to overcome these core feelings. As they grow up,

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abused kids may neglect their education or settle for low-paying jobs because they don’t believe
they are worth more. Sexual abuse survivors, with the stigma and shame surrounding the abuse,
often struggle with a feeling of being damaged.

Trouble regulating emotions. Abused children cannot express emotions safely. As a result, the
emotions get stuffed down, coming out in unexpected ways. Adult survivors of child abuse can
struggle with unexplained anxiety, depression, or anger. They may turn to alcohol or drugs to
numb out the painful feelings.

Recognizing the different types of child abuse

Abusive behavior comes in many forms, but the common denominator is the emotional effect on
the child. Whether the abuse is a slap, a harsh comment, stony silence, or not knowing if there
will be dinner on the table, the end result is a child that feels unsafe, uncared for, and alone.

Emotional abuse
Contrary to some people’s beliefs, words can hurt and emotional abuse can severely damage a
child’s mental health or social development. Examples of emotional abuse include:
 Constant belittling, shaming, and humiliating.
 Calling names and making negative comparisons to others.
 Telling a child they’re “no good,” “worthless,” “bad,” or “a mistake.”
 Frequent yelling, threatening, or bullying.
 Ignoring or rejecting a child as punishment, giving them the silent treatment.
 Limiting physical contact with a child—no hugs, kisses, or other signs of affection.
 Exposing a child to violence against others, whether it is against the other parent, a
sibling, or even a pet.

Child neglect
Neglect—a very common type of child abuse—is a pattern of failing to provide for a child’s
basic needs, which include adequate food, clothing, hygiene, or supervision.
Child neglect is not always easy to spot. Sometimes, a parent might become physically or
mentally unable to care for a child, such as in cases of serious illness or injury, or untreated

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depression or anxiety. Other times, alcohol or drug abuse may seriously impair judgment and the
ability to keep a child safe.

Physical abuse
This involves physical harm or injury to the child. It may be the result of a deliberate attempt to
hurt the child or excessive physical punishment. Many physically abusive parents insist that their
actions are simply forms of discipline—ways to make children learn to behave. But there is a big
difference between using physical punishment to discipline and physical abuse.

MEDIA #2

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Video: By Medical Centric (7 September, 2022)

Entitled: What Is Child Abuse and Neglect? Types, Symptoms, Treatment and Diagnosis

MEDIA #3

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Audio: By Rehealthify (1 July, 2014)

Entitled: Child Abuse – What You Need To Know

REFLECTION #1

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The article, “Child Abuse and Neglect” highlighted the prevalence and forms of child abuse,
including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, emphasizing its devastating impact on children's
physical and psychological well-being. The statistics and personal accounts evoked a mix of
sadness, anger, and frustration towards systemic failures.

The audio, “What Is Child Abuse and Neglect? Types, Symptoms, Treatment and Diagnosis”
offered a concise overview of child abuse, including its definition, types, and effects. It
broadened my understanding by revealing that neglect is a form of abuse and educated me on
subtle signs of mistreatment. Learning about these less obvious signs was eye-opening, as it
showed how abuse can be hidden in plain sight.

The video, “Child Abuse – What You Need To Know” detailed various types of child abuse
through reenacted scenes, profoundly deepening my empathy and understanding. Witnessing
these portrayals was heart-wrenching, underscoring the severe emotional and psychological toll
on victims. The vivid illustrations in the video made the information more impactful, leaving a
lasting impression.

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 REFLECTION #2

The article uses clear, direct language to educate readers about child abuse and neglect. It proved
myths wrong with facts, emphasizing the serious impact on children's well-being. The tone is
empathetic and advocates for intervention. Structured and organized, the article aims to raise
awareness and inform about recognizing abuse signs and consequences.

The audio uses clear, informative language to define child abuse, including physical, sexual,
emotional abuse, and neglect. It emphasizes the severe emotional impact, noting outcomes like
depression and substance abuse. The tone is serious and urges immediate action if abuse is
suspected, highlighting the need for intervention.

The video uses clear, informative language discussing child abuse and neglect, detailing types,
symptoms, treatment, and diagnosis. It defines child abuse as intentional harm to those under 18,
noting its severe lifelong impact. Various types are explained, including physical, sexual,
emotional, medical abuse, and neglect. The tone is serious and educational.

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 REFLECTION #3

Reflecting on this SBA about child abuse has profoundly impacted me. Through the resources, I
learned to identify signs of child abuse and understand the appropriate actions to take when I
suspect it. This newfound knowledge has made me more observant of those around me,
particularly my peers, recognizing that anyone might be silently suffering.

I now feel a greater sense of responsibility to support and advocate for them. These pieces have
taught me the importance of vigilance and empathy, reminding me that small actions can
significantly affect someone's life. This experience has not only increased my awareness but also
motivated me to be a more compassionate and proactive individual.

Moving forward, I am committed to using this knowledge to help create a safer environment for
those who might be vulnerable. I know that by being attentive and supportive, I can make a
difference in the lives of those around me.

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 PLAN OF ORAL PRESENTATION

My oral presentation is an essay, titled ‘Unveiling the Impact and Solutions to Child Abuse.’ It
explores the different forms of child abuse, their effects on individuals and society, and possible
solutions for prevention. The goal is to inform and raise awareness while encouraging action to
protect children. To ensure accuracy and depth, I used three sources: the article Child Abuse and
Neglect by Melinda Smith, M.A., Lawrence Robinson, and Jeanne Segal, Ph.D. (February 5,
2024), the video What Is Child Abuse and Neglect? Types, Symptoms, Treatment and Diagnosis
by Medical Centric (September 7, 2022), and the audio Child Abuse – What You Need to Know
by Rehealthify (July 1, 2014).

The presentation follows a structured plan. It begins with an introduction that briefly defines
child abuse and highlights its seriousness. Next, it explores the different forms of abuse which
are physical, emotional, sexual, and neglect, providing examples to clarify each type. The essay
then examines the short-term and long-term effects, including physical harm, psychological
trauma, and social difficulties. It also discusses solutions such as education, support services, and
community involvement, emphasizing the importance of collective action in preventing child
abuse.

The presentation is delivered in Standard English with formal, clear, and objective language. Key
terms are defined for clarity, and the tone remains serious and informative to reflect the
sensitivity of the topic. The conclusion reinforces the need for awareness and action,
encouraging the audience to play a role in protecting children. Through this structured and well-
researched approach, the presentation aims to educate and inspire meaningful change.

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 ORAL PRESENTATION

‘Unveiling the Impact and Solutions to Child Abuse’

Millions of children around the world are impacted by the serious problem of child abuse. This
includes various harmful behaviors directed towards children, such as physical, emotional, and
sexual abuse, as well as neglect. These forms of abuse inflict severe and lasting damage on
victims, affecting their physical health, psychological well-being, and overall development. To
address child abuse, you need to understand its forms, effects, and the necessary measures to
prevent and reduce its impact.

Child abuse manifests in several forms. Physical abuse involves the intentional use of physical
force resulting in injury or pain against a child such as hitting, burning, or biting. Emotional
abuse includes behaviors that harm a child's self-worth or emotional well-being, such as constant
criticism or humiliation. Sexual abuse involves any sexual activity with a child, including direct
contact and non-contact activities like exposure to sexual content. Neglect is the failure to meet a
child's basic needs, including food, shelter, clothing, medical care, and education. Each form of
abuse leaves intense scars whether visible or invisible, on its victims.

The impacts of child abuse are profound and long-lasting. In the short term, abused children may
suffer from physical injuries, anxiety, depression, and difficulties in school. They may exhibit
behavioral problems such as aggression or withdrawal. Long-term effects include chronic health
issues like cardiovascular disease and mental health disorders such as post-traumatic stress
disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. Abused children frequently have difficulty forming
healthy relationships with others and may struggle with trust issues and low self-esteem,
increasing the risk of substance abuse and criminal behavior.

Preventing child abuse requires a flexible approach involving individuals, families, communities,
and governments. Education and awareness are critical components of prevention. Support
services are essential for both preventing abuse and aiding those already affected. Community
involvement is also crucial, as neighbors, teachers, and other community members can help
identify and report abuse.

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In conclusion, child abuse is an extreme violation of a child's rights and dignity, with far-
reaching consequences. By working together through education, support services, and
community vigilance, we can create a safer world for children. Each of us has a role to play in
preventing child abuse and ensuring every child can grow up in a safe, nurturing, and supportive
environment.

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 WRITTEN REPORT

This SBA started with our teacher guiding us through the different sections of the English
SBA. We carefully selected our group members, theme, and subtopics before proceeding. Once
everything was set, we conducted independent research to gather materials for our project. Since
our focus was on the effects of abuse, we dedicated time to weekly meetings to discuss our
objectives and ensure our research remained relevant. Our study ultimately led us to investigate
the detrimental effects of abuse on individuals and society.
To support our research, we selected three key artifacts: an article, a video, and an audio
recording. The chosen article, “Drug Abuse and Addiction,” provided insights into the causes
and consequences of substance abuse. The video, “What Is Child Abuse and Neglect? Types,
Symptoms, Treatment, and Diagnosis,” helped us understand various forms of child abuse and
their long-term impact. Finally, the audio recording, “Domestic Violence and Abuse,” shed light
on the effects of domestic violence and ways to seek help. These materials were chosen because
they effectively aligned with our theme and offered valuable information for our study.
The artifacts proved to be highly instructive, enhancing our understanding of abuse and
improving our grammar and vocabulary. Analyzing the article was straightforward, as its main
arguments were clear and well-structured. The video was particularly engaging, improving
comprehension and providing real-life examples that made the information more relatable. The
audio recording deepened our awareness of domestic violence, offering practical knowledge on
prevention and intervention.
Through this research, we observed that the study's conclusions were very positive. The
materials demonstrated the importance of raising awareness about abuse and contributed to
improving our proficiency in grammar, writing, reading, and critical analysis. Additionally, as
our understanding of abuse grew, so did our awareness of its effects on society.
In the end, we successfully achieved our objective and completed the SBA. The selection
of content was based on relevance, timeliness, and its connection to our theme. This project
allowed us to develop essential research and analytical skills while deepening our awareness of
abuse and its impact.

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 BIBLIOGRAPHY

 https://www.helpguide.org/relationships/domestic-abuse/child-abuse-and-neglect -
Melinda Smith, Lawrence Robinson, and Jeanne Segal. (February 5, 2024). Child Abuse
and Neglect. HelpGuide.
 What Is Child Abuse and Neglect? Types, Symptoms, Treatment and Diagnosis -
Medical Centric. (September 7, 2022). What Is Child Abuse and Neglect? Types,
Symptoms, Treatment and Diagnosis [Video]. YouTube.
 Child Abuse - What You Need To Know - Rehealthify. (July 1, 2014). Child Abuse –
What You Need to Know [Audio]. YouTube.

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