What does VOCA mean in UNCLASSIFIED

VOCA stands for Victims of Child Abuse, which includes physical, emotional, sexual and neglectful abuse towards a child.

Unfortunately, child abuse is far too common. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in four children in the U.S. will experience some form of maltreatment before their eighteenth birthday.

Behavioral changes such as aggression or withdrawing from activities can be warning signs that a child has experienced abuse or neglect. Physical symptoms such as bruises, cuts, or welts can also be indications that a victim has been abused or neglected. Other red flags include poor hygiene, sudden changes in moods or behavior, difficulty sleeping or nightmares and anxiety about going home from school or visiting relatives' house.

If you suspect a child has been abused it is important to report it as soon as possible by calling your local law enforcement agency or social service agency in addition to seeking out crisis counseling services for the victim if needed. Mental health professionals including psychologists and psychotherapists can help victims work through any trauma they have experienced through cognitive-behavioral therapy and other forms of therapy to enable them to move past the issue with healthier coping skills. Q5 Where can I find more information about VOCA? A5: Information regarding VOCA can be found at various websites dedicated towards helping victims obtain resources they need including the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, Safe Horizon's website or the Department of Health & Human Services website dedicated towards helping victims recover from child maltreatment and seek justice when necessary.