Possible Infant Abuse?? - Infant Care (up to 18 months old) Message Board

becca112 · 11-30-2005, 03:54 PM

My best friend's son will be 2 in March of 2006. Like any small child he likes to touch things in stores and walk around trying to be as independent as possible. I have noticed that my best friends yells a lot at him, using many profanities. The other night we were shopping at a busy store, she gets mad at him for touching some clothes...grabs him by the arm and then lets go real quick so the poor boy goes tumbling to the ground (concrete) and hits his head pretty hard...of course starts crying ( I would 2). She then grabs him by the upper arm, yanks him into the air and in her arms. Then tells him to "Shut the F***up you little brat or I will whoop you A**". I think everyone one in the store turned around and was absolutely mortified at what she said. I love this girl to death but this little boy is also a MAJOR part of my life. Should I (having no children) attempt to speak with her about the issue I see or just leave it alone? My friend is really not a bad person, seems she just has some major anger issues and really has no patience for the baby. Every day I lose more respect for her...

Any Suggestions or Ideas?

Mommie-2-B · 11-30-2005, 04:00 PM

Oh wow! Are you in a tough position or what?? Here's my 2 cents.... That child cannot speak for himself and you are probably his only line of defense. Yes, it's not technically any of your business but GEEZ... who is going to be the advocate for this child if his mother is not. Good Luck

vsmom · 11-30-2005, 07:52 PM

Please say something to her! That baby is in a real crisis and needs a voice. You might make her mad but its worth it in the long run if you save that baby from real harm. She needs to get help!

shelliam · 11-30-2005, 08:48 PM

I agree with vsmom. The baby cannot defend himself and you may be helping her from big future problems BUT be careful!! It is hard to hear someone tell you how to raise your child but she might be so over the edge anyway that she is taking out on the poor baby.maybe offer to watch him because she seems she needs a break. My son just turned 2 and I couldn't imagine saying that to him.

Nutshell · 11-30-2005, 09:42 PM

OH MY!! I think you should definately say something here. Don't just jump on her case though as she may take it out on the little boy. I have a son who is 2 will be 3 in March 2006 and I could never imagine treating him like that. Please interfere here. Maybe you could offer to watch the baby and let her have some time to herself. Try to get to the root of her anger and impatience. I wish you the best.