"Good Riddance," The Emotional Childabuse of Three Teenage Boys.

Child abuse comes in three forms, physical, emotional and sexual. 

While the words "good riddance" don't carry the immediate shock value of physical or sexual abuse, their use in the context of a loving father's death reveals a profound disregard for the emotional well-being of his children. This callous utterance constitutes a form of emotional child abuse, leaving potentially lasting wounds on young minds of three teenage boys, struggling to process a profound loss.

Emotional abuse, though less easily identifiable than physical violence, leaves indelible scars. It encompasses actions or words that systematically undermine a child's self-esteem, sense of security, and emotional development. Common forms include verbal attacks, humiliation, rejection, isolation, and constant criticism. In this case, the phrase "good riddance" inflicts several deeply damaging blows to teenage boys at the height of vulnerability.

Firstly, it attacks the very foundation of a child's love and trust. Losing a parent is an emotionally shattering experience. Children need to grieve, feel safe expressing their pain, and receive support to process the complex feelings surrounding death. Disparaging their deceased father, even if the speaker bears ill will towards the adult, cruelly undermines the safe space a child desperately needs during profound loss.

Secondly, the phrase implies that their emotional pain is unwarranted or even wrong. Children often struggle with a complicated mix of emotions after a parent's death – sadness, anger, guilt, and confusion. By declaring "good riddance," the speaker invalidates their natural grief, suggesting their heartache is somehow inappropriate. This can lead to confusion, repression of emotions, and long-term difficulties in processing loss.

Thirdly, this statement potentially poisons the children's memory of their father. Every relationship is complex, and even imperfect fathers can be sources of love and security. Belittling their father in the immediate aftermath of his death can make it harder for them to find closure and hold onto positive memories.

While the intent behind "good riddance" might stem from animosity towards the deceased adult, it is utterly misplaced when directed at bereaved children. Teenagers are still developing emotional maturity; they may lack the ability to filter this cruelty and separate it from the overwhelming grief they already experience. Internalising this dismissal of their loss can have long-term consequences, potentially contributing to a distorted view of relationships and hindering their ability to cope with future challenges.

Child abuse does not always manifest in bruises or overt threats. Words carry immense weight, especially for those already vulnerable. Demonstrating even a sliver of empathy for children whose world suddenly shattered, offering condolences however simple, would be the humane response. Instead, choosing the path of "good riddance" reveals an appalling disregard for the basic principles of child protection and emotional well-being.

Rest In Power - Ross Broadstock