Title of Project Activity : Building Capabilities of Community Volunteers and Faith-Based Organizations as Advocates for Child Protection Implementing Organization: National Council of Social Development Foundation of the Phils, Inc. (NCSD) Activity Participants : 75 Volunteers From Dagupan City, Ormoc and Tacloban City Duration of Activity: 4 day each as a total of 12 days Activity Goals and Objectives Goals: Immediate Goal To train and mobilize 75 faith-based and community volunteers as Frontline advocates for the promotion on child’s rights. Long-term Goal To improve the life situation of 60% of the targetted 400 children in need of special protection in focused areas with social and economic support of 60-75 trained volunteers advocates. Specific Objectives At the end of four (4) days, the 75 volunteers in 3 batches of training activities are able to: •Acquire a basic understanding on the history and principles of volunteerism and attributes of an effective volunteer; •Know the situation of CNSP in the country and in their specific communities; Understand deeper the basic needs and rights of a child and commit themselves for their protection and development; Explain the causes why children are abused, neglected and exploited and help prevent these in their respective communities; Mobilize friends, parishioners, civic leaders in their city to share part of their life personally, financially and others types of assistance for the plight of the CNSP needing protection and support; Acquire skills in undertaking volunteer work and various service modalities and strategies for the psychosocial interventions for NCSD Organize themselves as a core of volunteers advocating and promoting for child protection and thus making their area as child-friendly communities; Develop a one-year program of work / re-entry plans on how to implement their learning insights from the seminar in their own communities. PROGRAM SCHEDULE DAY 1 AM - Opening Amenities Administration of Pre-Post Evaluation / Questionnaires Presentation of Activity Goals, Objectives and Content Understanding Volunteerism, basic principles and attributes of effective volunteers PM - Understanding basic needs and rights of children Understanding types of abuses on children and root causes of their behaviors Understanding psychodynamics and long term effects on behavior of CNSP. Methodologies – Brainstorming, buzz sessions, case situation analysis (Joselyn and Anna) Lecture, Discussion, Video Presentations (“The Daughter” and “Good Boy”) DAY 2 AM Summary of Day 1 Learning Insights Understanding types of parents, parenting behaviors Factors that lead to child abuse, neglect and exploitation by parents Protective Behavior Against Sexual Abuse of Children PM - Salient provisions of child welfare laws that volunteers should know in child protection, advocacy and development Child and Youth Welfare Code (PO603) Special Protection of Children Against Child Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act – RA 7610 Comprehensive Juvenile Justice and Welfare System RA 9344 Child Labor Law – RA 9231 Methodologies – Brainstorming, case situation analysis, exercises, lecture / discussion, large group sharing DAY 3 AM - Summary of Day 2 Learning Insights Areas for Volunteer work in Communities Responding to the needs for survival, protection and development of Street children in the area Panel Discussion – DSWD, CSWDO, Street educators and street children PM- Alternative Family Care for Children Foster Home Care / guardianship Adoption Family-based Program for children survivors of sexual abuse and exploitation Community Diversion Services for CICL Methodologies - Brainstorming, Case situation analysis, Video Presentations, Lecture/discussions, large group sharing DAY 4 AM - Counseling as effective intervention model in helping CNSP survivors of abuse, neglect and exploitation Ground level resource generation Networking / referral system PM- Team and Commitment Building principles and guides Action Planning for Volunteer Program for Child Protection in the City Faith-based groups Community Volunteer Advocates Activity Evaluation and Synthesis Administration of Post Test Evaluation Questionnaire Closing of the Activity COURSE CONTENT / RESOURCE / REFERENCES MATERIALS A.VOLUNTEERISM - History, Basic Principles and attributes History of Volunteerism Historically, volunteerism has always been an integrative component of human services anywhere in the world in varying types, scope and purposes. When Jesus Christ selected His Twelve (12) Apostles to help Him take care of His Flocks, it was a genuine act of volunteerism (except for Judas Iscariot). The Apostles left their families and assisted Him in His ministry without remuneration until His Ascension. It is recorded that the forerunner of modern day volunteerism started in 1617 when St. Vincent de Paul organized the Ladies of Charity (now, Daughters of Charity) and tasked them to help the poor, the sick, the slaves and others in misery in those time. This was follows by the Salesian sisters of St. John Bosco and the Good Shepherd sisters in 1800 serving the women, slavery and child labor. Soon after, the Catholic Volunteer Organizations and other Faith-based groups also made extensive use of their members and the laity in reaching out for the poor, victims of war, and those who suffered most as a result of economic depressions. During World War I and II, the International Red Cross volunteers worked underground to help wounded soldiers and other victims of war. The Philippine National Red Cross Volunteers (PNRC) are does the same not only during armed conflict but in all situation of natural and man-made disasters and calamities. Volunteerism in the Philippines on the other hand, dates back from the history of the country’s struggle against the oppression of the colonizers and its clamor “Katipunan” and the “Guerilla” movements were models of volunteerism The first professionally travel social workers who founded several orphanages, YMCA, NCSD were all volunteerism, too. Like other developing country, the Philippines was recipient of several direct volunteers service which started with the coming of the Thomasite volunteer teachers during the American occupation and the fielding of the Peace Corps volunteers in the early 60’s up to the present. They are assigned in far village and agencies involved in social welfare, education, agriculture, environmental protection and management. At present, the Philippines National Volunteer Service and Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) is responsible both in supervising foreign volunteers and sending Filipino volunteers in Africa and other thrill world countries BASIC POLICIES, PHILOSOPHY, VALUES AND PRINCIPLES IN EFFECTIVE VOLUNTEERISM The development of a functional volunteer program as an alternative resource in the delivery of human services to individuals, groups and communities requires careful planning and understanding basic values, Principles and Guidelines to enhance the quality of human interactions between stakeholders and the exchange of technology in the PLANNED CHANGE OR SOCIAL TRANSFORMATIONS. 1. Basic Values and Philosophy Respect for the worth and dignity of the individual in whatever level of status they are. Belief that every individual has the capacity to change and rise above the level person survival the self-efficiency, if they are given access to opportunities. Some are just faster and some low. Upholding the basic human rights and the rights of the child to SURVIVAL, PROTECTION, DEVELOPMENT AND PARTICIPATION. 2. Basic Principles Confidentiality – not sharing secrets and privileged information with others Self-Determination – acceptance that the individual has the basic right to decide for himself/herself. Volunteers are only facilitators for the change effort. Non-Judgemental Attitude – negatively labeling the child such as malikot, magnanakaw, malandi, etc. Helping behaviors are their feelings of hurt, fear, anger, hopelessness, sadness from being separated from sibling, mothers, peers rejected by society, etc. ATTRIBUTES OF AN EFFECTIVE VOLUNTEER 1. Emphatic – an effective volunteer Understand the values of others Sensitive to other’s culture, beliefs and traditions Shares other’s hopes, aspirations and hardships t gain trust and confidence 2. Humble He/she adopts a low – key approach and profile (Hindi mayabang) Recognizes the wisdom of others Sheds off authoritarian tendencies 3. Sensitive He/she is aware of and understands the needs and emotion of others Shows concern and lends a hand, especially during crisis situations 4. Decisive He/she knows when to act and when not to act Takes into account all relevant information on an issue before deciding or taking action 5. Self-Confident He/she feels capable of meeting challenges Has positive self-image 6. Dependable He/she is trusted to carry out his/her roles and responsibilities and able to deliver what is expected on time 7. Credible He/she is trusted to have the intelligence and integrity to provide correct information 8. Openness He/she is willing to listen, learn and accept new ideas contrary even to his/her own perception or experience 9. Transparent His/her official acts are open to anyone to review or examine and people have access to official documents and records 10. Accountable He/she accounts for personal actions and those of partners Does his/her task with honesty, impartiality and morality. 11. Responsible He/she ensures that actions are carried out and directions properly followed 12. Tenacious He/she has unyielding, drive to achieve or accomplish something (A Vision, Assignment or Mandate) 13. Creative He/she is innovative, a dreamer, inventive, imaginative and resourceful 14. Productive He/ she are able to produce “more” with available or limited resources. 15. Quality – Oriented He/She has the desire and passion for excellence 16. Stewarships He/She has the “caretaker” quality – inspiring, motivating, leading 17. Consensus - Seeker His/Her communication style is geared toward dialogue, understanding and harmony and a non-adversarial, win-win relationship. 18. Sense of Urgency He/She has a burning desire to act immediately and take advantage of opportunity to help others. 19. Anticipatory He/She can identify effects/impact of issues and events. 20. Futuristic He/She is able to forecast and tract future events. B. BASIC NEEDS OF A CHILD Material needs for sufficient bodily care without which the child may not be even surviving such us: Food, Clothing and Shelter. Protection from danger, abuse and exploitation. Love, care and affection as unconditional needs of every child. New experiences that bring about intellectual stimulation, mastery of his/her social environment Praise and recognition. Encouragement and reasonable expectations for their behavior as integral part of the learning process. C. RIGHTS OF THE CHILD-UN Convention on the Rights of the Child Four (4) Broad Categories 1. Survival Rights Rights of the child for him or her to live. These include food, health, shelter, and clothing’s. 2. Development Rights The rights of the child for him or her to attain full potential. These include education, rest and recreation, play, spiritual enrichment, love, car and affection. 3. Protection Rights The rights of the child for him or her to be supported and protection. These include protection from mental, physical or sexual abuse, neglect and exploitation. 4. Participation Rights The rights of the child which will enable him or her to express his or her feelings and thoughts. These include his or her right to speak his or her opinion; to have access to good and important information; to be with his or her own peers; and his or her right to have a name and nationality which he or she needs to be identified as a member of a family, community or a society. The Rights can be summarized as follows: Rights to be born, have a name and nationality (no to abortion, to have a birth certificate etc.) To have a family who will love and care for them (own family or alternative family such as in adoption, foster home care, guardianship, kinship care) To live in a peaceful community and a wholesome environment (such as living in armed conflict). To have adequate food as a healthy active body, thru formal education, alternative learning system (ALS) To be given opportunity to play and leisure/recreation; a universal need of every child Duties and Responsibilities of Children (PD 306) Lend an upright and virtuous life Love, respect and obey their parents Love his / her brothers and sisters Develop his potentials as an individual Respect his/her elders, visitors and cultural traditions Participate in Civic affairs Help observe human rights of others D. SITUATION OF CHILDREN IN NEED OF SPECIAL PROTECTION TYPES FEMALE MALE Abandoned 560 Neglected 1,307 1,242 Sexually abused/incest 4,065 64 Sexually exploited 255 29 Physically abused 784 656 Sub-Total 6,971 Total (46.5% are sexual abuses) 519 ,2510 9,481 Children in Need of Special Protection These are children who are. . . . . . In hazardous & exploitative labor On the streets Victims of sexual abuse & commercial exploitation Without primary care givers In situation of armed conflict In conflict with the law With various forms of disability Girl children In ethnic / cultural communities Living with HIV/AIDS Who are in need of Alternative Parental Care or the Children in Need of Special Protection (CNSP) Philippine Population 85.2 million (total population as project by NSO for year 2005) 43.4% or 32.8 million are children or below 18 years old 15% or 13.5 million are below 6 years old Types of Alternative Parental Care ADOPTION – A socio-legal process which enables a child who cannot be reared by his biological parents acquire legal status wherein he/she can benefit from new relationships with a permanent family. Adoption establishes a parent-child relationship resulting in the same mutual rights and obligations that exist between children and their biological parents FOSTER / KINSHIP FAMILY CARE – is the provision of planned substitute parental care to a child by a licensed foster family when his/her biological parents are unable to care for him/her temporarily or permanently Street Children Highly visible children: More than 4 hours on the streets. National estimate: 45,000 – 50,000 75% with families 20% refrain from going home 5% without families Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children Trafficking Child Prostitution Child Pornography Victims of commercial sexual abuse are: Mostly females, ages 13-18 Initiated into the sex trade as early as age 10 Belong to a large family Mostly out of school / drop-outs DSWD Reported Cases of CSEC CSEC 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 TOTAL Victims of Pedophilia 40 32 51 Victims of Prostitution 186 224 245 247 269 1171 Victims of Pornography Victims of Trafficking (not only for sexual purposes) 9 4 7 13 7 45 29 95 66 129 364 Total 280 278 379 377 446 1760 21 41 185 40 Children working under the Worst form of Child Labor 4 Million child laborers ages 5 to 7 59.4% or 2.4 million are exposed to hazards 6:10 children are unpaid 60% of them are in agricultural areas 36.5% of working children do not go to school Child Labor as defined by ILO Forced Labor Hazardous and exploitative conditions Deprived of education opportunities DSWD – 2002-2003 – 626 cases [male251 (40%) / female-375(69%)] Children in Conflict with the Law Profile of children in Conflict with the law: Usually male Between ages 14-17 Elementary graduate Middle child; from a low-income family Charged with property related crimes, rape and murder Exposed to drugs or gang influence Youth Offender – over 9 but under 18 years of age at time of commission of Offense As of September 2005, there were over 4,ooo children in jail and detention centers all over the country; more than 10,000 cases involving children were handled by Public Attorney’s Office Most of them were charged with minor crimes such as petty theft, sniffing of glue or solvents, vagrancy and violation Children without Primary Care Givers 1993 Survey of households – 16% households have children below 12 years old 1:6 household – children without adult supervision DSWD Statistics Abandoned Neglected 2002 1079 2549 2003 1134 2560 Children in Situation of Armed Conflict As combatants, couriers, guides, medical aides or spies 13-18% of armed rebel groups 13-17 years old 55% boys; 45% girls Children of poor farmer Elementary school drop outs 115 child combatants captured or surrendered Children in Various Circumstances of Disability More boys than girls 1:5 children in 0-6 age bracket has some form of disability 10-14 age group has the highest prevalence rate most common forms of impairment are hearing or visual impairment more than half are acquired and can be prevented Children and HIV/AIDS Every minute 6 young people 15-24 years old become infected with HIV/AIDS 242 AIDS related deaths 38 children are HIV positive 15 children have feel blown AIDS 9 children have died Children in Ethnic / Cultural Communities 12-15 million (IPs National Commission on IPs, 1998) 2.5 million indigenous children Live I remote areas usually accessible only by foot Have limited access to basic social services Often suffer from discrimination and neglect E. TYPES AND IMMEDIATE EFFECTS OF CHILD ABUSE A. Definition of Child Abuse An act when a person inflicts physical or psychological harm or injury, cruelty or neglect, sexual abuse and exploitation of a child. B. Types of Child Abuse 1. Child Physical Abuse / Maltreatment 2. Child Physical Neglect 3. Child Sexual Abuse and Sexual Exploitation 4. Emotional Child Maltreatment or Psychological Abuse 5. Child Labor 6. Child Trafficking 7. Child in Conflict with the Law 8. Child Abuse in Armed Conflict Situation 9. Child in Drug / Substance Abuse Effects of Child Abuse 1. Child Physical Abuse / Maltreatment – immediate effect is injury or even death. Psychologically, a maltreated child has difficulty in relating with adult figures, may develop lack of empathy and social attachment with others, passiveaggressive behavior, may hurt or “boss” other children, hostile, passive or withdrawn. If not helped, they may revisit the abuse experience in their parenting style and may abuse or hurt their own children and others. 2. Child Physical Neglect – immediate effect is malnutrition retardation, illness and even death. Normal development will be stunted or delayed, mistrustful, difficulty in socializing and bonding with others, persecution complex, uncaring for others. Effects of Child Abuse 3. Child Sexual Abuse and Sexual Exploitation – immediate effects are; severe anger with abuser, injury, loss of virginity, blaming uncooperative mothers and family members in case of incest, separation from family, peer and school; shame and guilt for not reporting abuse or accommodation syndrome. Longterm consequences if not helped by social workers, mental health disciplines and parents may include damaged self-esteem and self-image, mood swings worthlessness, relationship problems including with spouse and children. Sexual problems / sexual identities, difficulty in expressing emotions or tendency to suppress feelings, difficulty in trusting others, distant, an aloof, cannot provide physical affections with children, chronic depression, and worst, psychosis. When they become parents, they may revisit the experience and abuse their own children. 4. Children Emotional Maltreatment or Psychological Abuse - immediate effect is low self-esteem, hostile, withdrawn. Hey can be passiveaggressive, low self-image, revengeful and unable to trust others, violent at times. Effects of Child Abuse 5. Child Labor – immediate effects are frequent illness and even death due to accidents and exposure to hazardous physical environment, grave danger of being sexually abused, exploited and maltreated or involved in high-risk behaviors such as substances abuse, prostitution and alcohol. The normal growth and development of these children are stunted or delayed due inability to pursue education, participate in appropriate group play and recreation, acquisition of positive new experiences which will enrich their life. <moreover, this sectoral group has tendency to blame their parents and society in general due the culture of poverty and hopelessness they are in. Effects of Child Abuse 6. Child Trafficking - immediate effect is fear for security and safety, sadness, due to separation from parents and siblings, severe anger to traffickers and those responsible for the trafficking which may even include family members, shame in case they are pushed to prostitution and others, feelings of helplessness and hopelessness for being trapped to an abuse situation. Effects of Child Abuse 7. Child in Conflict with the Law - immediate effect is fear, anger towards authority, aggression and hostility, longing to see mother and siblings, affects normal development, trauma of incarceration which may result to severe anger with parents and society, anti-social behavior and loss of conscience even hurting others and going deep into becoming a career criminal. Some justifies aggression and criminal behaviors for their survival and revenge to the persons who hurt and neglected them. Effects of Child Abuse 8. Child in Armed Conflict - immediate effect is fear for safety and security for self and family, anger and hurt for death of some members of the family which may be too traumatic resulting to deep feelings of revenge pushing of them to become child combatants, couriers, guides or spies of the rebel groups. Some children have also become objects of attack, assault, torture and other inhumane treatment. Since many children in armed conflict areas are in evacuation centers, they are unable to pursue education, have limited nutritious foods and other basic amenities for child survival resulting to illness, some disabling conditions and even death to some. Effects of Child Abuse 9. Child in Drug / Substance Abuse / Dependency – immediate effect is aloofness, hostility and aggression. Those in chronic drug abuse may be violent and commit acts against persons and property. Intoxification will affect the child’s alertness, thinking, perceptions, decision-making and behaviors that are either different or bizarre. Acute intoxification may also lead to accidents, suffocation, injuries, convulsions or even sudden death. F. PSYCHODYNAMICS / BEHAVIORS COMMON TO ABUSED AND EXPLOITED CHILDREN TYPES OF CHILD ABUSE Group I 1. Child Physical Abuse HOW THE CHILD MAY APPEAR PHYSICALLY •Unexplained bruises and welts in face, body and torso,back •Unexplained burns from cigarettes butts, in palms, back or buttocks •Unexplained wounds in face, head and arms or any parts of the body. HOW THE CHILD MAY BEHAVE •Wary of contact with adults •Aggressive •Hostile •Guilty •Angry •Withdrawn •Frightened of parents •Fearful and mistrustful •Becomes uneasy when another child cries •Serious problem of running away, self mutilation, withdrawn suicide attempts, violent F. PSYCHODYNAMICS / BEHAVIORS COMMON TO ABUSED AND EXPLOITED CHILDREN TYPES OF CHILD ABUSE Group I 2. Child Physical Neglect HOW THE CHILD MAY APPEAR PHYSICALLY •Always hungry •Has poor hygiene (uncombed hair, has not taken baths, has dirty or inappropriate clothes) •Looks sickly, malnourished •Un-socialized and primitive eating behaviors HOW THE CHILD MAY BEHAVE •Begs for food or money •Steals food / hoarding food •Always feels tired or weak, unusual fatigue •Angry •Hostile •Poor school performance •Negative attitude toward parents TYPES OF CHILD ABUSE HOW THE CHILD MAY APPEAR PHYSICALLY HOW THE CHILD MAY BEHAVE Group 2 1. Child Sexual Abuse •Has difficulty in walking •Severe feelings of anger, •Has pain or itchiness in genital guilt, and shame area •Hostile •Has bleeding in genital area. •Sad •Has severe bruises around •Fearful vagina and anus •Fantasizes •Recurrent bladder infections •Often stares blankly •Sexually transmitted infections •Restless and seldom able to •Pregnancy finish an activity •Fear of showers, bathrooms or •Mistrustful of adults motives closed or open doors •Quarrelsome •Unwilling to take a bath or •Rage / shouts at the top of takes a bath several times a day her/his voice •Depersonalization / temporary amnesia TYPES OF CHILD ABUSE HOW THE CHILD MAY APPEAR PHYSICALLY HOW THE CHILD MAY BEHAVE •Wearing •Suicide Group 2 several layers of ideation clothing •Frequent flash backs / •Sexualized behavior, often bad dreams talks about sex, wear hallucinations skimpy clothing, attracts •Sudden change in opposite sex, masturbates school performance •Leaving the house frequently without any reason •May go into drugs, prostitution or alcohol TYPES OF HOW THE CHILD MAY CHILD ABUSE APPEAR PHYSICALLY HOW THE CHILD MAY BEHAVE Group 2 4. Child Emotional Maltreatment or Psychological Abuse •Shy, isolate from others •Stammering speech •Delayed physical development •Stays inside the room often or stays out with friends late. •Uneasy joining family activities even at meantime. Eats alone. •May be in substance abuse or alcohol •Low self-esteem •Hostile with abusive family members •Always angry •Has neurotic traits or tantrums •Sad •Fearful •Violent at times •Move or acts in an abnormal fashions •Suicide ideation •May be on unwed pregnancy or early live-in relationship to escape or punish parent TYPES OF CHILD ABUSE HOW THE CHILD MAY APPEAR PHYSICALLY HOW THE CHILD MAY BEHAVE Always Withdrawn Group 3 5. Child Labor hungry Malnourished/underweight Unable to pursue /always absent from school Filthy clothing Dirty due to exposure to pollution / dirt with uncut hair Unattended medical and dental care Shy, timid Has scars in some body parts engages, in begging or scavenging Sometimes engages in pick pocket/mugging to fend for their survival Filthy language or highly sexualized behaviors for those in child prostitution Hostile Sad Angry for being poor Always feels tired and fatigued Fearful of their future Violent at times for survival Obedient to parents Development delayed / stunted TYPES OF CHILD ABUSE HOW THE CHILD MAY APPEAR PHYSICALLY HOW THE CHILD MAY BEHAVE Group 3 6. Child Victim of Trafficking •Cannot speak normally to express feelings •Bruises / injuries on some parts of the body •Internal injuries caused by punch •Reluctance to talk about incident of trafficking •Hyper-vigilant, fearful and guarded adults •Uneasy and anxious •Fearful angry to traffickers or with parents •Withdrawn •Sad •Hostile to talk about incident •Trauma may affect cognitive functioning of the child TYPES OF CHILD ABUSE HOW THE CHILD MAY APPEAR PHYSICALLY HOW THE CHILD MAY BEHAVE Group 4 7. Child in Armed Conflict •Seldom smile/ solemn faced •Mistrust •Fearful / aloof to strangers •Aggressive, eager to fight •Underweight due to insufficient back / revengeful food in evacuation center 8. Child in Conflict with the Law •Has scars and signs of injuries •Hostile •Shy / withdrawn / resistant to •Aggressive talk •Sad for separation from •Has tattoos in some parts of mothers and siblings the body •Fearful for negative group •Wear earrings norms •Suspicious that he/she is being •Rebellious watched TYPES OF CHILD ABUSE HOW THE CHILD MAY APPEAR PHYSICALLY HOW THE CHILD MAY BEHAVE Group 4 9. Child in Drug Substance Abuse •Always sleeps or at daze •Inconsistent behavior •Very weak, loss of appetite, looks always tired and drowsy •Thin, looks malnourished •Can be violent and hurt others •Vulnerable to other high risk behaviors such as sexual abuse, criminality, etc. G. TYPES OF PARENTS AND PARENTING BEHAVIORS Types of Parents Characteristics 1. Procreator Parent (Taga-luwal, Taga-anak lamang, child bearer) Low emotions, does not express love and affection to the child Neglected, abusive Does not give herself/himself to the child They only bore, the child, there is no love, emotional bonding between the child and the parent 2. Dilettante Parent (inconsistent, pasulpot-sulpot) Emotion is high but does no give much herself/himself to the child: example rich families and many (yaya) takes care of the child G. TYPES OF PARENTS AND PARENTING BEHAVIORS 3. Determinative Parent (Diktador) Gives a lot of physical attention to the child but has low emotional involvement Experts a lot from the child because he/she has to give too much to the child. Example: Aalagaan kita pero dapat aalagaan mo rin ako 4. Generative / Optimal Parent (nakikipagkapwa mapagmahal) High emotional involvement on the child. Gives a lot to the child Look at the children as persons They listen and negotiate with the child Indulgent, accepting but not controlling Consult their children H. FACTORS THAT INFLUENCES PARENTING BEHAVIORS WHICH MAY RESULT TO ABUSE, NEGLECT AND EXPLOITATION EMERGING ISSUES AND TRENDS AFFECTING PARENTING RESPONSIBILITIES The worsening spectrum of family disintegration threatening family solidarity, the basic unit of society where social functioning is learned ordinarily by all human being. The relationship problems at home often results to separation, annulment, divorce, pushing the children to leave their homes and stay elsewhere, sometimes on the streets. Increasing number of common-law and livein relationship Increasing domestic violence, battering of women in an intimate relationship Increasing number of cases of child sexual abuse perpetuated by family members (fathers, brothers, uncle, siblings, grandfathers, stepfathers) Increasing number of common-law and live-in relationship Poverty in the rural areas encourages the families to more to the urban centers for survival and consequently feelings of hopelessness in urban life. The loss of family support, lack of access, advice and protection while in urban centers makes the members of the family vulnerable to exploitation, harassment and other forms of abuse. The feminization of industry and overseas employment of parents alienating any of them (father or mother) from their children from deep emotional bonding and attachment between them. Sometimes, this results to sexual abuse and others forms of maladjustments in the family relationships or parent child relationships Emergence of new family structures and systems which affects / challenges the traditional value systems. No more or demonizing “buffer zones” or mediation role by the extended family nuclear and in-laws. Grandparents are no longer accepted in the nuclear family home The improvement of information technology and tri-media which changes the socio-cultural values among people and which also exposes. The children from undesirable image of violence and sex which are not checked or reviewed by MTRCB and the parents themselves. The widespread use of cellphone (text messaging / internet café which bring about negative / adverse effects on the quality of parent-children relationship). It diminishes socialization among family members Increasing value of consumerism and materialism by families resulting to “commoditification” of children where parent/s stepparents would even push their children to the flesh trade or prostitution or exploitative child labor for money. Social and economic dislocation of families as result of armed conflict, natural calamities affecting family relationships and development RISK FACTORS IN PARENTING The following are some of the risk factors in parenting which they affect quality of parent – child relationship / interactions 1. Childhood history of parents where they were also abused and neglected and had little nurturing. Resulting Problem: Unable to trust others Fearful about life / situations Main repeat parenting patterns of family abuse Emotionally needy / low self-esteem Unable to establish positive bonding and attachment to their own children, due to lack of nurturing experience themselves 2. Parent history – crime, substance abuse, alcohol, mental, illness Resulting Problem: Unable to attend to the care and needs of the children due to intoxication Mental illness or improvement makes the parent unavailable to this children May harm the children when out of control 3. Discipline Problems with children Resulting Problem: Increased stress of the parents 4. Low self-esteem, social isolation, depression and poor coping skills of parents. Resulting Problem: Delays in the social development of children Poor problem solving skills High stress levels in parents and children may result to low energy and impatience 5. Multiple Stresses and Crisis in the Family Resulting Problems: High stress levels in parents and kids may result to poor coping skills Little time of energy to focus on children needs Domestic violence 6. Potential Violence within the Family home Resulting Problems: Physical and emotional harm to parent(s) and / or children Parental violence is modeled to the children Little energy to focus on the children 7. Unrealistic expectation for the child. Lacks knowledge on child / care development Resulting Problems: Parents perceive child as always demanding, provocative Child does not experience mastery, has low self-esteem Parents respond inconsistency to child and child gets confused 8. Child is neglected or at – risk for poor bonding or poor parent-child interaction Resulting Problems: Attachment disorder Negative feelings towards child Less love or more impatience Less time for the child 9. Harsh punishment of the rejected / unwanted child Resulting Problems: Harm to the child (physical or emotional) Parental frustration, feeling of hurt, rejection or anger I. SALIENT PROVISON OF CHILD WELFARE LEGISLATIONS THAT VOLUNTEERS SHOULD KNOW FOR EFFECTIVE PARTICIPATION AND ADVOCACY ON CHILD PROTECTION 1. Child and Youth Welfare Code – Presidential Decree 603 Article 19 – Absence or death of Parents, Grandparents and in their defaults, the oldest brother or sister who is at least 18 years of age or relative who has actual custody of the child shall exercise parental although in case of absence or death by both parent. 21 – Dependent, Abandoned and Neglected Child. The dependent, abandoned and neglected child shall be under the parental authority of the suitable or accredited person or an institution that is caring for him/her as provided for under the law. After the child has been declared either by the court or the DSWD. This means that when a child is found abandoned or unattended to in a place, the volunteer must not take the child to the DSWD and not to any private person. Article Article 142 – Petition for Involuntary Commitment of a child. The DSWD or his authorized representative or any duly licensed child placement agency having knowledge of a child who appears to be dependent, abandoned or neglected, may file a verified petition for involuntary commitment of said child to the case of a licensed agency or individual to the proper court. The court upon hearing the case may terminate the rights of parents under Article 151 and can file for restoration of custody under Article 164 provided the child in the meantime has not been priority given away for adoption nor has left the country with adopting parents or guardian (Article 163). The petition for restoration of custody shall be verified by the court and shall be verified by the court and shall state that the petitioners (parent) is now able to take proper custody and care of the said child. 154 – Voluntary Commitment of a child to an institution. The parent or guardian of a dependent, abandoned or neglected child may voluntary commit him/her to the DSWD or any licensed child placement agency or individual subject the provision of the court. It must be in writing (Art. 155). It can only be restored by parent after six (6) months after surrender or voluntary commitment after verification that they are already capable to care and support the child (Art. 161) Article 2. Domestic Adoption Act of 1998 RA 8552 Article 1 Section 3 – Simulation of Birth. This is tampering of the civil registry making it appear in the birth records that a certain child was born to a person who is not his/her biological mother, causing child to lose his/her true identity and status Article VII Section 21 - Violations and Penalties. Any Person who shall cause the fictitious registration of a child under the name(s) of a person(s) shall be guilty of SIMULATION OF BIRTH and shall be punished prison major (6 months to 12 years imprisonment) or fine not exceeding fifty Thousand Pesos (P 50,000.00). 3. Republic Act 7610 – Special Protection of Children against Child Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination. Act – July 22, 1991. Age Coverage – persons below eighteen (18) years of age of those over but are unable to fully take over of themselves or protect themselves from abuse, neglect, cruelty, exploitation or discrimination because of a physical or mental disability or condition. This means that 20 years old mentally challenge (retarded) is abused (sexually, physically, and emotionally), she is covered by the law. Types of Abuse covered by the Law 1. Psychological and Physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse and emotional maltreatment. Incest by fathers, siblings, grandfathers Rape by other persons and relatives including a child below 18 yrs old who will be prosecuted under RA 9344, or comprehensive Juvenile Justice and Welfare System Act Child Prostitution Acts of lasciviousness / molestation Child Trafficking Pornography Child Labor Abandoned, neglect other forms of abuse 2. Any act by deeds or words that debases, degrades or demeans the intrinsic worth and dignity of a child as human being. 3. Unreasonable deprivation of the child basic needs for survival such as food and shelter. 4. Failure to immediately give medical treatment to an injured child resulting to serious impairment of his/her growth and development or permanent incapacity or death. WHO MAY FILE A COMPLAINT The offended party (the child voluntarily or assisted by an adult. If parents are not supportive, she/he can file by herself/himself alone) Parents or guardians Ascendant or collateral relative within the 3rd degree of consanguinity or blood relations Officer, social worker or representative of a licensed child-caring institution Officer or social worker of the DSWD / LGU Barangay Chairman At least 3 concerned, responsible, officials citizens where violation occurred Teacher, government workers, officials involved with children Private / Public hospitals / Clinical WHEN TO REPORT Within forty eight (48) hours upon knowledge of the abused WHERE TO REPORT DSWD or LGU Social Welfare and Development Office (M/CSWDO), Law Enforcement (Police), Prosecutor (Fiscal) Court, BCPC (Barangay). IMMUNITY FOR REPORT (Section 7) A person who, acting in good faith, shall report a case of child abuse shall be free from any civil or administrative liability arising there from. There is shall be a presumption that any such person acted in good faith. 4. Republic Act 9231 – An Act Providing for Elimination of the Worst Forms of Child Labor 5. Republic Act 92551 – An Act Allowing Illegitimate Children to use the surname of their fathers 6. Guidelines for Birth Registration of Children: CNSP, Delayed birth registration SALIENT PROVISIONS OF R.A. 9344 (An Act Establishing the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act) a) Basic Principles and Rights The passage of the law is pursuant to Art. 40 of UNCRC which provides for the: promotion of worth provides for and legal safeguards for a child accused of having been in conflict with the law application of the principle of restorative justice right not to be subjected to fortune and other cruel inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. right not to be imposed a sentence of capital punishment or life imprisonment without possibility of release. right not to be deprived, unlawfully or arbitrarily of his / her liberty; detention or imprisonment being a disposition of last resort and shall be for the shortest appropriate period of time. right to privacy, bail, recognizance and diversion right to automatic suspension of sentence, probation as alternative to imprisonment. b. Minimum Age of Criminal / Responsibility / Coverage A child fifteen (15) years of age or under at the time of the commission of the offense shall be EXEMPT from criminal liability. However, the child shall be subjected to an intervention program. A child above fifteen (15) years but below eighteen (18) years of age shall likewise be exempt from criminal liability and be subjected to an intervention program, unless HE/SHE HAS ACTED WITH DISCERNMENT (to perceive clearly with the mind or senses or showing good judgment in his / her perception) in which case, such child shall be subjected to appropriate proceedings (in justice system) in accordance with this Law. c.) Determination of Age Birth Certificate Baptismal Certificate Other pertinent documents His / her own testimonies or other persons Physical appearance In case of doubt of his /her age it shall be resolved in his / her favor! In case of contest / complain regarding his age, he court should decide the case within 24 hours upon receipt of case appropriate pleadings of all interested parties. d.) Structures A Juvenile Justice and Welfare Council is created to oversee the implementation of the law. The Council shall be under administrative supervision BUT chaired by the DSWD. e.) Treatment of Children below 15 years old Immediately release the child to the custody of parents or guardian or in absence thereof: to the Nearest relative or if they cannot be located or refuse to take custody of the child to: licensed NGO religious organization barangay official or a member of BCPC Local Social Welfare and Development DSWD if abandoned, neglected or abused or parents will not comply, the DSWD or LSWDO to file petition for involuntary commitment to proper court (PD603) f.) Treatment of Children above 15 but below 18 years but who acted without discernment - follow the same treatment as (e) g.) Treatment for those above 15 years but below who acted with discernment: Rather than detention, the CICL shall undergo DIVERSION PROGRAM without undergoing court proceedings. (Diversion refers to an alternative child-appropriate process of determining the responsibility and treatment of CICL) If imposable penalty is not more than six (6) years, the law enforcement officer (police) or punong barangay with the help of the local social welfare and development office (city or municipality) or other members of the LCPC shall conduct Mediation, Family Conferences and Conciliation or other Modes of Conflict Resolution modes to achieve restorative justice. The result of mediation shall be in writing and signed by parties concerned and appropriate authorities In victimless crimes (no private offended party) where the imposable penalty is not more than six (6) years imprisonment, the local social welfare and development officer shall meet the child and his / her parents or guardians for the development of appropriate diversion and rehabilitation in coordination with the BCPC Where the imposable penalty for the crime committed exceeds six (6) years of imprisonment, diversion measures may be resorted only be the court. If the impossible penalty exceeds six (6) months and the parents or guardian DOES NOT CONSENT TO DIVERSION, the Punong Baranggay and the law enforcement officer handling the case shall within 3 days forward the record to the prosecutor or to the judge concerned for the conduct of inquest or preliminary investigation to determine need whether or not the child should remain in custody or correspondingly charged in court. h.) Factors in determining diversion program The nature and circumstances of the offense charged. The frequency and severity of the act. The circumstances of the child (e.g: age, maturity, intelligence etc.) The influence of the family and environment on the growth of the child. The reparation of injury to the victims. The weight of the evidence against the child. The safety of the community. The best interest of the child. i.) Factors in the Formulation of the Diversion Program. The child’s feelings of remorse (deep regret for wrongdoing) for the offense he/she committed. The parents or legal guardian’s ability to guide and supervise the child. The victim’s view about the propriety (correctness of the behavior) of the measures to be imposed The availability of community-based programs for the rehabilitation and reintegration of the child j. Kinds of Diversion Programs (Only for 45 days) 1. At the level of the Punong Baranggay Restitution of property Reparation of the damaged caused. Indemnification of consequential damages (compensation for damaged done) Written or oral apology Care, guidance and supervision orders. Counseling for the CICL and the child’s family Attendance in trainings, seminars and lectures on: anger management skills problem solving / conflict resolution skills values formation other skills which will aid the child in dealing with situations which can lead to repetition of the offense. Participation in available community-based programs including community service Participation in education, vocational and life skills programs 2. At the level of the law enforcement officer Diversion same at Punong baranggay level Confiscation and forfeiture of the proceeds or instruments of the crime. 3. At the level of the Appropriate Court Diversion same as Punong Baranggay and Law Enforcement Written or oral reprimand Fine Payment of the cost of proceedings Institutional care and custody k.) If the diversion at different levels is successful and the child and parent cooperate, the social worker recommends to the court to dismiss the case. If not successful, the case is returned to the court for appropriate action / disposition upon reading 18 years old. l.) If the court finds the CICL have failed to willfully complied with conditions of the rehabilitation program. The court may be brought before the court for execution of judgment. The court may also decide extend the rehabilitation program until reaching age 21 years old. AREAS FOR VOLUNTEERISM IN COMMUNITIES/ PARISHES For the Parish and Community to become Child-Friendly environment for children HIGH RISK CHILDREN Generally, the following children are at risk ILLEGITIMATE NO POSITIVE BONDING AND ATTACHMENT WITH PARENTS DURING EARLY CHILDHOOD – 0 –6 YEARS OLD EMOTIONALLY REJECTED, NEGLECTED BY PARENTS / GUARDIANS BORN WITH DISABILITY (Physically and mentally challenged, down syndrome, hearing or visually impaired, palsy etc) PARENTS ARE ABSENT FOR OVERSEAS EMPLOYMENT WHEN STILL A BABY OR UNDER SIX, EXPERIENCED MATERNAL DEPRIVATION EFFEMINATE / TOMBOYISH NOT EDUCATED / OUT OF SCHOOL ENGAGED IN CHILD LABOUR (WORST FORMS) PARENTS SEPARATED, STAYING WITH ABUSIVE STEP PARENTS LIVING WITH DYSFUNCTIONAL, SEVERELY DISTURED/CHAOTIC PARENTS PARENTS MENTALLY ILL INSTITUTIONALIZED LOW SELF-ESTEEM FATHER DOMESTICATED “UNDER DE SAYA” CHILDREN OF INCARCERATED PARENTS SUFFERING FROM TRAUMA/SURVIVAL PARENTS WERE ABUSED THEMSELVES AS A CHILD AND ARE LIKELY REPEATING/REVISITING THE ABUSE EXPERIENCE WITH OWN CHILDREN CHILDREN WHO EXPERIENCED VIOLENCE AND ARMED CONFLICT INDIGENOUS PEOPLE BIG FAMILY IN POVERTY SITUATION BIRTH NOT REGISTERED CHILDREN IN NEED OF SPECIAL PROTECTION 1. ABANDONED / SURRENDERED – Those left in hospitals, clinic, foundlings or given up by parents due to poverty or unwed pregnancy. Recent information says that about 5 –10 children are abandoned by mothers in hospitals a month – 977-2000 data of CWC/UNICEF balding head and other forms of abuse – 1,606 as of 2002 – UNICEF/CWC data 2. CHILD LABOUR – Worst forms of child labour includes exploitation in sugar cane plantation, pyrotechniques, deep sea fishing, prostitution, mining, and domestic work – 4 million as of 2003 3. NEGLECTED – Unreasonable deprivation of their basic needs for survival such as food, clothing and shelter, health services, lack of physical care, malnourished and others that are prejudicial to their normal development – 2,532 (2002 data of DSWD) 4. PSYCHOLOGICAL/EMOTIONAL ABUSE/MALTREATMENT – Behaviors which attacks child’s self-esteem and social competence affecting their intrinsic worth and dignity as a child as a human being. It includes constant nagging, rejecting, being judgemental, terrorizing, ignoring, belittling, calling names, using degrading words and similar behaviors by adults or peers – no available data. 5. SUBSTANCE/POLYDRUG USERS – Normally taken by street children and children with deep-seated emotional problems – no available data RESPONDING TO THE NEEDS AND PROTECTION OF STREET CHILDREN IN THE CITY In close coordination with the City Social Welfare and Development Office focal person handling street children and street educators. The volunteers (community advocates, faith-based) can undertake the following: (some of these can be part of the re-entry plan) 1.1 Survival Needs / Protection Survival Needs / Protection Providing them food at least twice a day. Some of possible strategies are: Supplemented nutrition feeding of CSWDO, NGO, Parish and People’s Organizations Mobilizing community / parishioners and volunteers themselves to alternately feed 2 to 3 street children daily while they are not yet reunited with families, referred to a residential facility or placement in other alternative homes. Negotiating with the wet market administrator to all the children clean (without child labor) the market place daily but in return motivate fish/meal/vegetable vendors to donate a fish each/day and “buto-buto”, rice and vegetables. Have the street educators supervise the cooking for the children’s meals. Negotiating with the food / restaurants to donate food for the street children and “taong grasa” (tramps/beggars). Have these recycled / re-cooked in the identified volunteer kitchen Student volunteers to be mobilized for feeding needs of street children Other strategies applicable in the area 2.2 Safety and Security From the hazards of the street (accident, harassment by bystanders, police and pollution) Assisting Street Educators look a safe house where they can sleep particularly during rainy season and typhoons meanwhile that they are still on the street. (abandoned houses, school, tents, construction of bahay kubo, abandoned jeepney / trucks put together and repainted, abandoned container van / repainted etc) Facilitating reunification with parents / relatives or immediate referral in residential care facilities Negotiating with LGU (police for curfew hour for street children and placing all of the city and cockfits during nighttime. Street-based education sessions can be conducted her as it is a more controlled settling. Constructing improvised sleeping quarters in marketplace. Other Strategies applicable in the area. 2.3 ALTERNATIVE HOME PLACEMENT – It abandoned or cannot be immediate returned to parents Recruitment of Parish Councils / Faith-based leaders to apply as DSWD Licensed Foster Homes / Parents on Temporary or Long-term Some may be motivated to become adoptive parents (thru court) although this may be very expensive-costs ranges from P 20, 000 to P 80,000 due to lawyers’ fee, newspaper publication, court fees etc. Street Children may be discussed I the pulpit during masses or announced in the Bulletin Board. The DSWD / CDSWDO technical staff may be requested to conduct Foster Home Care and Adoption clinics on Sundays. The volunteers may help the Street Educators search for the Children’s relatives and place them on Kinship Care. Kins may be provided support with jobs so they will be able to finally support the maintenance of the street children. Kins must not be abusive. Other alternative strategic applicable in the area. 2.4 HEALTH AND MEDICAL SERVICES Helping the Street Educators take / refer the children for medical consultation and treatment in local clinics / hospitals Conducting regular medical mission in the Parish Church / Community Mobilizing physicians / clinics students to done medicines and vitamins for the street children 2.5 PLAY AND RECREATION Soliciting funds for purchased of play equipment / supplies, uniform, shoes Sponsoring sports fest competitions among street children Requesting schools to conduct sports clinics 2.6 LIVELIHOOD AND JOB PLACEMENTS Helping the bigger street children undertake livelihood activities appropriate for their age, level of maturity and health without violation of child labor laws. Vending activities Finding jobs to street children not violation of child labor laws such as gardener, service crew I restaurants, street sweeper, garbage collectors using carts, wet market baggers, church janitors and similar jobs 2.7 SPIRITUAL FUNCTION Catechism with sessions on values education Bible studies 3. ABANDONED / FOUNDING AND TOTAL ORPHANS NEGELECTED WITHOUT PRIMARY CAREGIVERS Referring these children immediately to the City Social Welfare Office or any licensed child caring institution. Volunteers should not take these children in their homes unless they are licensed as foster homes by DSWD. They can be charged of Child Trafficking Never give these children to private families and simulate the birth of the child. This is illegal and has corresponding sanctions under existing law (Domestic Adoption Law) Report Founding (found in garage, street etc) to the CSWO or to the police for immediate investigation 4. SEXUALLY ABUSED / SEXUALLY EXPLOITED CHILD Request the Priest or Pastor of your parish to report the case to the Barangay Chairman or direct to the City Social Welfare Office or the Local Police within 48 hours upon knowledge of the abuse. If the abuser is the father and put to jail and the mother has no source of income for the survival or education of the children. Volunteers should conduct a ground level resource generation so they solicit funds for the family’s livelihood activity. Volunteers should provide crisis counseling to the grieving mother and children and help them go through the mourning period. Priest / Pastor’s should announce in the pulpit to help child and family not be subject of nasty rumors. After all, the abuse is not the fault of child. She is the victim and should not be blamed or be shamed as result of the abuse experience. Helping the child and the parent undertake / supervise the healing and recovery treatment interventions while at home in close coordinator with the local social worker. Conducting session on protective behavior against child sexual abuse with the help of the local social workers Developing a community program for early detection and prevention of child sexual abuse and sexual exploitation (commercial sex exploitation, pornography, cybersex and similar sexual exploitation illegal activities). Have this reported to the local police or NBI or City Social welfare for arrest. Reporting to NBI / Police Child Prostitution Brothers or Sex Dens where children are hired on commercial sex exploitation. Facilitating application of avail of the DOJ Victim Assistance and compensation to children victims of sexual abuse with six months after filing of cases. The children can avail of P 10,000 victim compensation assistance. 5. CHILDREN IN CONFLICT WITH THE LAW Assisting the CSWO and Barangay in organizing and implementation of Community-based diversion programs in coordination with parents Assisting the Barangay leaders in providing counseling for CICL on diversion together with their families or guardians. 6. EARLY CHILDHOOD AND ENRICHMENT PROGRAM Conducting neighborhood ECCD session with parents (group of 5-10 parents) focused on effective childrearing, pregnancy health care, nutrition education, sanitation, effects of waterborne disease, oral dehydration etc. Conducting session of family planning and values education. BASIC COUNSELING COUNSELING It is a planned interaction between the client and the worker to assist client in altering his present behavior. It is the process of helping the client discover for her/his self the coping mechanisms that have been helpful to him/her in the past and how they can be used or modified for the present situation or how to develop new coping mechanisms. Counseling is ENABLING and should be differentiated from ADVICE GIVING. The counselor is not an ADVISER or a person of authority. The counselor is a person who FACILITATES SELF-DISCOVERY BASIC COUNSELING SKILLS: OBJECTIVES OF COUNSELING To build a trusting relationship where the client can communicate her concerns and describe her problems, feelings and behaviors without fear of judgment. To encourage the client to see the helping or problem-solving process as a mutual responsibility where she makes active decisions and where she can value her ideas and support her endeavors. To reduce the client’s fear and distrust of helping/treatment programs and thereby encourage her to continue attending the treatment programs B. AN IDEAL COUNSELOR IS SOMEONE WHO: Is creative and imaginative Shows self-awareness by not imposing personal concerns on clients Has good common sense and social awareness Shows respect for clients Is action oriented C. THINGS TO AVOID IN COUNSELING: Ordering and Commanding Warning and Threatening Giving advice or providing solutions Arguing or persuading Moralizing Disagreeing, judging and criticizing Ridiculing or labeling Reassuring or sympathizing Withdrawing or distracting D. SHOW EMPATHY RATHER THAN SYMPATHY Listen to client’s problems and understand their feeling. Look straight to their eyes and asks “what it is like to be in the place of this person”. E. ASK OPEN-ENDED QUESTIONS AND ENCOURAGE HER TO ELABORATE Do not ask questions answerable by yes or no or one-word answer. IN TAKE INTERVIEW FOR COUNSELLING GOALS ASSESSMENT OF PROBLEM SITUATION APPROACHES TO THE PROBLEM ACTION PLANNING WHAT DOES CLIENT DESIRE? IS CHANGE DESIRED? WHAT IS THE SITUATION AND WHAT CAN BE DONE ABOUT IT? IS IT A CHANGE IN THE SITUATION OR A CHANGE IN RELATIONSHIP THAT IS DESIRED? HOW WILL CLIENT APPROACH THE SITUATION TO ACHIEVE THE DESIRED CHANGES? WHAT ACTIVITIES WILL CLIENT UNDERTAKE TO ACHIEVE THE DESIRED CHANGES? National Council of Social Development