I am so concerned about the children from the polygamy sect
These children have lived very sheltered lives. I can't imagine the confusion and turmoil that they must be feeling as a result of being taken from the familiarity of home and family to live in a strange place with people that they do not know.
We read about the pain of this separation for the mothers, but what about the children? How are they dealing with the emotional fallout of this difficult time?
ABC News has covered this story extensively:
Bruce Perry, a child psychologist, testified that the traditional foster care system could be destructive to children taken from the sect's ranch. But he also testified that the children could be at risk if they are returned to the ranch.
At the same time, what kind of emotional damage might have been visited upon these children being raised in an atmosphere of alleged sexual abuse?
But Perry warned that the possible problem with that kind of arrangement is the children's continued exposure to the destructive belief system that promotes sex could be harmful. When asked, Perry said that the youngest children are probably least at risk if returned to parents in the short term because they are least influenced by unhealthy beliefs.
There seem to be no clear cut answers. Meantime, I hope that the children are being well served by the foster care system.
We read about the pain of this separation for the mothers, but what about the children? How are they dealing with the emotional fallout of this difficult time?
ABC News has covered this story extensively:
Bruce Perry, a child psychologist, testified that the traditional foster care system could be destructive to children taken from the sect's ranch. But he also testified that the children could be at risk if they are returned to the ranch.
At the same time, what kind of emotional damage might have been visited upon these children being raised in an atmosphere of alleged sexual abuse?
But Perry warned that the possible problem with that kind of arrangement is the children's continued exposure to the destructive belief system that promotes sex could be harmful. When asked, Perry said that the youngest children are probably least at risk if returned to parents in the short term because they are least influenced by unhealthy beliefs.
There seem to be no clear cut answers. Meantime, I hope that the children are being well served by the foster care system.
Replies to This Discussion
-
Permalink Reply by Paula on -
I have been reading about this in the news and read an article today about one of the underage girls giving birth to a baby today. Even more startling to me was the statistics on underage girls and pregnancy in the sect.
On Monday, CPS announced that almost 60 percent of the underage girls living on the Eldorado ranch either have children or are pregnant.
Of the 53 girls between the ages of 14 and 17 who are in state custody, 31 either have given birth or are expecting, Azar said.
I feel for all of the children but especially the underage girls and their babies. Most will wind up in state custody with their mothers. Like you said their are no clear cut answers here I just hope whatever is decided is in the best interests of the children first.
To read more of the article I quote.. click here.
© 2008 Created by Adrienne
