The Kids on the Block Program on

Physical Abuse

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Kids on the Block Program on Physical Abuse was developed in order to educate children about physical abuse and to make them aware of available services.  This curriculum is an educational tool designed to:

• explain/define physical abuse
• encourage children to talk with an adult if they think they may be in an abusive situation
• teach children to understand their feelings and encourage them to talk about these feelings
• provide information about agencies and organizations who offer services for families in need of help

ABOUT THE CHARACTER: STEPHEN ARTHURS

Stephen Arthurs is 11 years old.  His many interests include cooking, photography, and baseball.  He enjoys spending time with his good friend Nam because they do lots of fun things together.  Stephen lives with his mother, Beth, father, Samuel, and little sister, Tony.  He gets along pretty well with the people in his family, especially now since they are getting the help they need.

Together, they participate in family counseling sessions to work out a physically abusive situation.  Stephen’s mother had been physically abusing Stephen.  When she was angry, she would strike out at him.  Several times, she caused injuries for which Stephen had to go to the hospital.  When Stephen finally realized that what was happening to him was not “usual,” he was very confused and upset.  He didn’t want to get his mom in trouble, but he knew he had to talk to someone about his problem.  He wanted to figure out what was so “bad” about him that would cause his mother to hit him.

Stephen finally decided to tell his Aunt Louise about the abuse.  When she didn’t believe him, he was discouraged, but found another trusted adult to tell, his teacher Mrs. Johnson.  She said it was really great that he told.  Mrs. Johnson told Stephen he was very brave and that by talking to someone about his problem, he was not getting his mom IN trouble, but was taking the first step toward getting her OUT of trouble.  Mrs. Johnson talked to the principal of the school and together, they called social services.  A social worker came to talk to Stephen, Mrs. Johnson, and the principal to determine the next step.  The social worker conducted an investigation and recommended intense services for the family.  Now that they are getting the help and support that they need, the Arthurs family is happy to be functioning in a healthier way.

Stephen is the featured character in The Kids on the Block program on physical abuse.  He also appears in the programs about epilepsy and sexual abuse.

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