My friend is abused by his dad and stepmom and I tried telling our school counsellor but my friends stopped me because my friend's parents could deny it and he could get hurt. Idk what to do?

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4 Answers

Arthur Wright Profile
Arthur Wright , Florida Paralegal with a BS degree in Social-Psychology, answered

Sometimes in life we are forced to make really hard decisions like this one but then we need to ask ourselves is my friends well-being worth the risk here before something serious happens?  Most places have abuse hotlines where one can report their suspicions anonomously and they'll handle it from there which could be your best bet here. It may cost you your friendship but only temporary as your friend will eventually appreciate what you've done here and youll feel better for it so now you have some decisions to make and I know youll do the right thing. Talk it over with your Parents  and leave nothing out as this is very serious here and your friend does need help.  He's lucky to have a good friend like you that cares about him and I thank you too and if I can help in any way here, please let me know

Yo Kass Profile
Yo Kass answered

It's a tough situation, but I think it's really important that you or your friend do speak to an adult you can trust.

Schools and child protection services take allegations of this nature pretty seriously, so you can expect that it will be more than just a case of the parents denying it, and everything being forgotten.

There are also services you can seek advice from anonymously, so if you're concerned that it will only make things worse, I would recommend reporting it anonymously and getting some information on what action would likely happen, this will help you become better informed about what to do next.

Bikergirl Anonymous Profile

Don't worry about 'denials' .. THAT is very common, and I'm sure they will deny it all .. Anyone accused of such a thing WILL do that when confronted.  The thing is, nothing will change until something is done. And .. if this is a true case of abuse .. it's a shame to know that you CAN do something to stop it, but do nothing.  You do not have to judge these people, nor do you have to convince anyone that it's happening .. just tell them what you know .. it will be investigated.

Bringing this to someone's attention opens up an opportunity for someone to investigate it .. Nothing wrong with telling your teacher .. THEY in turn, will know what to do and how to go about doing it...and will even know how to deal with denials.


Sharron Prestcott Profile

Talk to a teacher you can trust or a school counselor, these people are obliged to report abuse cases to the authorities.  Of course his parents will deny it but this boy could be in very real danger if something is not done fast.

Tell your parents, the school principal if necessary but help him because it sounds as though he's too afraid to seek the help himself.

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