Mar 9 • 05:49 UTC 🇸🇪 Sweden Aftonbladet

“Dad has such big hands that it hurts extra”

A report reveals that many children contact Bris to disclose experiences of violence, with a notable number expressing fear and pain caused by parental figures.

Children contacting Bris, an organization advocating for children's rights in society, often do so for the first time to talk about experiences of mistreatment. The report highlights a disturbing narrative where children feel their concerns are overlooked by the adults around them. One child's statement poignantly captures their pain: 'My dad sometimes hurts me, and mom just watches. And dad has such big hands that it hurts extra.' This highlights the unsettling reality many children face in abusive family environments.

In 2025, Bris received calls from 63,000 children, averaging about 172 calls per day. For many of these children, this contact marked their inaugural attempt to articulate their silent suffering. While the majority of conversations revolve around mental health issues, around 10,000 calls pertained to children who endure violence inflicted by parents or stepparents. The report from Bris particularly sheds light on the themes of violence and a lack of adequate care, emphasizing the urgency of addressing these issues proactively.

The emphasis placed on violence against children in this year's report underscores the critical need for societal awareness and intervention. Children shared harrowing experiences, describing situations where screaming and physical aggression were commonplace. Instances of parental violence were not isolated; rather, they appeared to be a distressing pattern for many, necessitating a concerted effort from society to recognize these signs and take action to protect vulnerable children.

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