Abuse is a more effective form of captivity than a cell will ever be.

More about Abuse is a more effective form of captivity than a cell will ever be.

From mental cruelty to indifferent neglect, some forms of child abuse are hard to detect. Children internalize negative messages and often blame themselves for an abusive situation. Isolated and confused, they fear repercussions if they ask for help. And hope, which should be a fundamental aspect of childhood, can be buried by despair.

The quote, “Abuse is a more effective form of captivity than a cell will ever be.” is an observation made by Brandon Sanderson in his book, 'Yumi and the Nightmare Painter'. Sanderson is a prolific writer of fantasy and science fiction. He excels at creating characters who must (and do) find the courage to face their fears and the regrettable mistakes they make because of those fears. Almost inevitably, the path out of their internal prison begins with asking for help. What bravery that takes!

As a genre, fantasy can expose realities about abuse from the relative safety of other worlds and times. Fictional characters can reveal possibilities and demonstrate solutions that might light the way. There are many good writers of Young Adult fiction. If you are concerned about a child, ask a librarian for a reading list.

Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-422-4453.