Child abuse cases increased in Northern Mariana Islands

The Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) has seen a rise in child abuse and neglect cases. Last year, the Division of Youth Services (DYS) reported 535 cases, up from 455 in fiscal year 2023. This represents a 17.58 percent increase. Additionally, the number of child victims' accusations rose from 1,184 to 1,474, marking a 24.49 percent increase. DYS director Vivian Sablan explained that some accusations involve secondary victims, who may be indirectly affected by abuse. She noted that various types of abuse have different trends. Physical abuse slightly increased, while sexual abuse decreased. Emotional abuse and neglect both went up, along with many other issues like domestic violence and suicidal tendencies. Sablan highlighted that economic hardships contribute to stress in families, which can lead to neglect and abuse. She shared that three babies have been born with meth in their system this year, and there have been 28 reports of possible drug concerns in homes. The CNMI’s diverse culture can complicate child protection efforts. Child protection officer Juanicia Villanueva spoke about the need to educate parents on the differences between discipline and abuse. She emphasized that acceptable parenting methods have changed over the years, and what may have been normal in the past is not acceptable today. Sablan believes the increase in reported cases also reflects improved awareness and community trust in DYS. The agency has worked to change its image from a force that breaks apart families to one that offers support. More funding is now directed at prevention efforts to assist families before problems escalate.