The case of the 13 years old girl abused by the mother [Video]

The well-known psychologist, Denata Toce shares her professional opinion on the case of violence of a mother against her 13-year-old daughter, a case that became mediatic during January 2020.

She says that the violence seen in the video was multi-dimensional; it was not only physical but also verbal and expressed also in front of the other child. Exercising violence against children creates violent children in themselves and at high risk for later mental health problems.

Under these conditions, it is necessary to separate children from that environment. The court's ruling on perpetrated violence, considering it a form of discipline for the benefit of the child, was arbitrary and "legitimizing domestic violence with both hands." While in fact punishment is the model to be promoted by such institutions.

In terms of intervention, it is advised the immediate removal of children from this family environment, their institutionalization, or their transfer to foster care, where the second option is preferred. This measure requires an in-depth expert assessment of the conditions under which children will be taken care of next.

Children should be treated by a clinical trauma psychologist who will enable the child to overcome emotional trauma. At the same time, however, the mother must undergo a rehabilitation process; she can meet the children but always in the presence of the protection worker.

She concludes her assessment of the case with this message: “This case should serve as an example. It is time for the state to react and be harsh so that such parents or guardians fear that tomorrow they may not see their children anymore."

Watch the report here: https://youtu.be/gdnUjhW9fWU?t=574