Financial concerns, strained marriages and social isolation are among pressures that can cause stress. Stress can push people to their limits and is a major factor in child abuse, a preventable tragedy that takes the lives of three children every day in the United States. These situations can occur in a public place, such as a grocery store, leaving observers feeling helpless. Unfortunately, most people ignore the abuse. Witnesses to child abuse in a public place often feel uncomfortable and do not know how to respond appropriately.
Every person has a part to play in preventing child abuse.
Praise the child and parent at the first opportunity. If the child is in danger, offer assistance. For example, is a child is left unattended in a grocery cart, stand near the child until the parent returns. Avoid negative remarks or disapproving looks. These can be counterproductive, increasing the parent's anger and further endangering the child.