World · Singapore Bureau
Ex-therapist fined for causing hurt to special needs child
A 29-year-old former behavioural therapist has been fined after causing hurt to a four-year-old boy with special needs during a therapy session. The incident occurred after the child struck the therapist multiple times in the face.
LSN Singapore ·

The former therapist was brought before the courts following an incident in which she caused hurt to the young child, who has special needs, during a lesson. The boy had repeatedly hit the therapist in the face during the session, prompting the response that led to the charge.
Details of the case reveal tensions that can arise in therapeutic settings when working with children who have developmental or behavioural challenges. The therapist's action in response to being struck by the child resulted in legal consequences, highlighting the duty of care expected of professionals working with vulnerable populations.
The conviction and fine serve as a reminder of the professional standards required when working with children, particularly those with special needs who may exhibit challenging behaviours during therapy. Such cases underscore the importance of de-escalation techniques and appropriate responses in therapeutic environments.
The case has raised questions about training and support systems for therapists working with children with special needs, particularly when managing situations involving physical aggression or resistance from young clients.