Mr Alan John has provided an insightful account of the challenges and struggles faced by men who have a history of domestic violence, and brought to view the good work that Pave is doing (Family abuse: Men need to know violence is unmanly; May 19).

It is disturbing to read the increasing number of news reports of child abuse.

At Boys' Town's Clinical Intervention Centre, I have handled many cases relating to Child Protection, and it is disconcerting to see the numbers rising steadily over the years.

Some of these cases involve parents whose children are either suspected of or diagnosed with behavioural disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, and conduct disorder.

Children with such health concerns have extremely difficult and challenging behaviour.

Many parents are unaware of such conditions and attribute the signs and symptoms to the children being "naughty", and resort to harsh punishments to "discipline" them.

It is important to let these parents know that there are vast resources available to help them acknowledge the problems that they face with their children and to seek help as soon as possible.

Early intervention is key and it can help to prevent problems later.

Celynn Chang (Ms)
Manager
Clinical Intervention Centre, Boys' Town