Q. I think my aunt is abusing her niece. She beats the child for everything and refers to her as one who has no place in society. I am upset but, because she used to beat me too, I am afraid to say anything to her.
A. You can call the nearest Child Development Agency or the police to report any instance of child abuse. I do recommend that you see a psychologist/counsellor to deal with the anger and/or resentment issues that you may be dealing with.
Q. I have come to realise that in Jamaica we are taking the rights of the child issue so seriously that we are spoiling the children. I think that they have the right to do what parents say. If I want my child to jump, I should be able to tell my child to jump. My child is my child. Don't I have rights too?
A. You have the right to love and care for you children in ways that will not harm them. Once you are not abusing your children, it should not be a problem that you expect them to do as you say. There will be times when a command will be quite in order, but also it is important that depending on the issue you give your child choices. If there are issues that relate to, for example, the child moving to a new school or the family changing it's plans about a trip, it is recommended that you share with your children basic reasons why changes are taking place while not making them feel responsible.
Q. I would love to adopt a child. I am 45 years old, the owner of a small business and not married. Can I adopt even though I am not married?
A I think you can. You need to get in touch with the Child Development Agency. There are regional offices throughout the island and they will be happy to talk with you and conduct an interview at a convenient time. You can also call them at 1-888-991-3353.
Dr Orlean Brown-Earle, PhD, is a child psychologist and family therapist. Dr Brown-Earle works with children with learning and behaviour problems throughout the island and in the Caribbean. Email questions to helpline@gleanerjm.com or send to Ask the Doc, c/o The Gleaner Company, 7 North Street, Kingston.
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