Author:
Markiian Klymkovetskyi
While reading news about violence against children, the desire to find and punish the perpetrators is entirely understandable. However, in pursuing justice, it is crucial not to cause further harm to the child.
Publishing their face and personal information can have severe consequences for their mental health and may even lead to years of bullying.
Why is it important to protect a child’s anonymity when reporting on violence? How can we balance public interest and the child’s safety? Nataliia Sosnovenko, a psychologist from Voices of Children, explains.
Publishing their face and personal information can have severe consequences for their mental health and may even lead to years of bullying.
Why is it important to protect a child’s anonymity when reporting on violence? How can we balance public interest and the child’s safety? Nataliia Sosnovenko, a psychologist from Voices of Children, explains.
Why Should a Child’s Anonymity Be Maintained in Stories About Violence?
Anonymity acts as a shield, protecting the child from retraumatization and creating a safe space for their recovery.
A child who becomes the focus of public attention in stories about violence may experience shame, fear, helplessness, anger, and alienation.
Constant attention can cause anxiety and isolation. The child may feel guilty, fear social interactions, and lose trust in others.
A child who becomes the focus of public attention in stories about violence may experience shame, fear, helplessness, anger, and alienation.
Constant attention can cause anxiety and isolation. The child may feel guilty, fear social interactions, and lose trust in others.
Does Public Exposure Help a Child Overcome Trauma?
No. On the contrary, it makes rehabilitation more difficult. Constant reminders of the event intensify anxiety, fear, and reluctance to engage with society. Instead of focusing on healing, the child is forced to relive the trauma repeatedly.
How Can Publicity Affect a Child’s Future?
In the long run, it can lead to:
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Difficulties with social adaptation. The child may avoid interactions and withdraw.
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Difficulty trusting others. They may be afraid to seek help in the future.
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Low self-esteem. Feeling like they are “different” from others.
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Risk of developing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Public condemnation and reminders of the trauma can leave a lasting impact on mental health.
How to Report Such Cases Without Harming the Child?
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Focus on the issue, not the individual. Speak about the phenomenon of violence, but not a specific child.
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Do not disclose details that could identify the affected child.
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Involve experts—psychologists, lawyers, and representatives of public organizations.
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Emphasize the need for changes in society and legislation.
How to Report on Suspected Perpetrators If They Are Children?
Society has the right to know the truth about a crime, but revealing personal data about a child perpetrator can also lead to their harassment. It is essential to balance the public’s right to information and the child’s right to rehabilitation.
Let’s remember: every child has the right to privacy, safety, and a chance for a full life after trauma.
If you notice sudden behavioral changes in a child due to the war, reach out to our specialists on the psychological support hotline (free of charge): 0800 210 106.
Let’s remember: every child has the right to privacy, safety, and a chance for a full life after trauma.
If you notice sudden behavioral changes in a child due to the war, reach out to our specialists on the psychological support hotline (free of charge): 0800 210 106.
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