A 15-year-old boy from Alberton has been placed in the care of his older sister following years of alleged emotional and psychological abuse, in a case now highlighting the often-overlooked signs of non-physical harm in children.

The teenager had been living with his maternal aunt since the age of four.

According to family members, concerns about abuse date back several years, with his older sister alleging that she and another sibling were also subjected to similar treatment while living in the same household.

She (the sister) left the home after turning 18, followed by another sibling who also reportedly experienced abuse.
The youngest child remained behind until the situation came to light more recently.

A breakthrough came when another aunt moved into the same residential complex and began noticing concerning behaviour.

The teenager later confided in her, alleging ongoing abuse.

The concerned aunt and the older sister reported the matter to authorities and initiated legal proceedings to have the child removed from the home.

The court has since granted the older sister foster care rights.

The aunt who had been caring for the child opposed the move, claiming proper legal processes were not followed and alleging the child had been taken unlawfully.

However, the court ruled that due process had been followed and upheld the foster care placement.

The family also claims that previous reports of abuse had been made to local child welfare, but no action was taken. These allegations have not been independently verified.

Further concerns were raised about a criminal case that the family reportedly opened against the aunt and later withdrawn without their knowledge.

The family believes external influence may have played a role, although no official confirmation has been provided.

A medical report compiled by a specialist psychiatrist confirmed that the teenager has been diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and complex trauma, conditions consistent with prolonged exposure to adverse experiences during key developmental stages.

He is currently receiving psychiatric care and has been referred for ongoing psychotherapy, with professionals recommending a stable and supportive home environment to aid his recovery.

The older sister alleges that the dispute over custody may be linked to financial interests, claiming the child has access to a trust fund.

This claim remains unproven.

The family says their decision to speak out is aimed at raising awareness about emotional and psychological abuse, which often goes unnoticed.

According to Childline South Africa, abuse is not always physical. Emotional abuse can include humiliation, manipulation, threats, verbal attacks, and withholding affection, all of which can significantly impact a child’s development and mental health.

UNICEF has also warned that violence against children remains a critical challenge in South Africa.
The organisation notes that abuse and neglect are often normalised in society, driven by factors such as poverty, inequality, and ongoing social pressures.

“People often look for physical signs of abuse, but the emotional damage can be just as severe,” a family member said.

To report child abuse, call Childline South Africa at 116 or their national office at 031 201 2059.

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