Inspector Diana Narteykie Ayimedu of the Ghana Police Service has urged parents and guardians to take greater responsibility for protecting children from all forms of abuse.
Speaking on Plan B 104.5 FM’s Nyansapɔn Fie, hosted by Akosua Gyamfua, on the topic “The Role of Parents and Guardians in Protecting Children from Abuse,” Inspector Ayimedu stressed the importance of responsible parenting, proper supervision and open communication in safeguarding children.
She explained that under Ghana’s Children’s Act, 1998 (Act 560), a child is a person below 18 years, adding that parents and guardians have a responsibility to provide children with proper care, protection, education and guidance.
Inspector Ayimedu identified physical, sexual, emotional and psychological abuse, child neglect and child labour as major forms of child abuse. She cautioned parents against excessive physical punishment, insults and other actions that could harm children’s physical and emotional well-being.
She also warned against neglecting children’s basic needs or forcing them into work that interferes with their education and development.
The police inspector encouraged parents to create safe and supportive home environments where children feel loved, respected and comfortable discussing their concerns.
Referring to psychologist Albert Bandura’s Social Learning Theory, which explains how children learn by observing the behaviour of others, she urged parents to lead by example by demonstrating respect, kindness and peaceful ways of resolving conflicts.
She further advised parents and guardians to listen carefully to their children and take their complaints seriously, particularly when they report mistreatment at home, school or elsewhere.
Inspector Ayimedu also highlighted the need for parents to monitor their children’s use of social media and the Internet to protect them from online dangers and exploitation.
She cautioned that children could suffer abuse at the hands of people they know, including family members, urging parents not to assume that a child is safe simply because the person involved is a relative or someone they trust.
She called for stronger collaboration among parents, teachers and child-protection authorities to ensure that children grow up in safe and supportive environments.
Inspector Ayimedu concluded that protecting children from abuse requires responsible parenting, open communication, proper supervision and prompt action whenever abuse is suspected.
By: Raphael Narh Gatourhe
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