In Fiji, there is a troubling shortage of trained child psychologists to address the needs of children who have witnessed domestic violence. Shamima Ali, the coordinator of the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre (FWCC), pointed out that while some individuals claim to be trained, there is a significant lack of qualified specialists equipped to handle the profound trauma experienced by these children, particularly those who have witnessed violence inflicted upon their mothers.
Ali emphasized the misconception that witnessing such violence is not recognized as a form of violence against children in Fiji, leading to it being frequently overlooked in domestic violence response measures. Although the FWCC has provided support to children affected by violence since its establishment in 1984, Ali highlighted that while crisis counselors may offer immediate assistance, they do not possess the specialized trauma training necessary for addressing deeper emotional scars.
The demand for psychological support is rapidly growing; however, the existing infrastructure is insufficient. Ali acknowledged the efforts of the Ministry for Women and Children to enhance training, yet states that these initiatives have not kept pace with the increasing necessity.
Furthermore, domestic violence survivor Akanisi Lebaivalu shared her tragic experience and the ongoing emotional trauma her children face after witnessing the abuse she suffered. Her eldest daughter exhibited signs of distress at school, fearing abandonment after leaving their abusive home. Despite the challenges they face, Lebaivalu remains hopeful, attributing her strength to her faith and believing that her children will overcome their trauma and thrive.
This shortage of specialists is echoed in ongoing training initiatives aimed at improving the situation in Fiji. Recent training programs aimed at enhancing support for child abuse victims show promise, as seen with a specialized initiative involving community leaders and counselors, which emphasizes psychological support and the importance of qualified personnel to help heal affected children.
While these developments represent hopeful steps towards improving the mental health landscape for Fiji’s children, it underscores the urgent need to expand the pool of qualified mental health professionals capable of addressing the distinct challenges faced by children who’ve experienced violence.
The collaborative efforts between organizations and the government indicate a commitment to bolster child welfare, ensuring that future generations can expect greater protections and support in their recovery from trauma. This is a significant move towards fostering a nurturing environment for all children, providing hope for a brighter future in Fiji.
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