Wholeness of the Abused Children and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) : A Psycho-Pastoral Perspective

Wholeness of the Abused Children and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Psycho-Pastoral Perspective, is a splendid piece of psycho-pastoral insight informed by social scientific methodology and analysis. The author delves into the problem of child abuse which is widespread in many developing countries and Ghana is no exception. He pointed out that despite efforts of the Ghanaian government to halt the exploitation of its children; Ghana remains a major source, transit point and destination for child trafficking, and a variety of forms of child slavery and unthinkable child abuse. This pernicious problem, though profitable for a few, harms the societal fabric and obstructs it from real development. This study explores possible sources of child abuse in its many forms and from the perspective of children, parents and society and how these can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder in children. It then offers characteristics of abuse and signs and symptoms of the effects of child abuse for caregivers and child advocates charged with the protection and nurturing of children. Finally, the study presents strategies and actions that pastors and counselors can take to stop abuse and its resultant effect, post-traumatic stress disorder and to help those who have been victimized to heal. The goal of this study is to promote the healing of wounds of abuse inflicted on the most vulnerable members of society and, ultimately, the healing of the Ghanaian society in particular. As long as its children suffer, there is little hope for positive development and the establishment of a just and peaceful world. The suffering of these children is the Ghanaian society's suffering and its responsibility. Every child has the right to be nurtured by a loving family, supported by a caring community and to be brought up in the world knowing love, security with the ability to realise their dreams.