A new investigation by NOS reveals at least twelve confirmed cases of severe child torture in the Netherlands over the past five years, a form of abuse distinguished from neglect by its intentional cruelty and power dynamic. Cases include horrifying acts like imprisonment, binding, strangulation, and forced ingestion of bodily fluids. Experts believe this represents only the "tip of the iceberg," citing a lack of awareness and research into child torture within the Netherlands compared to the United States. Unlike typical child abuse, child torture involves deliberate infliction of pain and derives pleasure from control. Clinical psychologist Leony Coppens highlights a "blind spot" in recognizing and addressing these crimes, with perpetrators adept at concealment and victims often disbelieved. Schools are frequently the first to notice warning signals, underscoring the need for increased vigilance and knowledge. The actual number of cases is likely significantly higher as many go unreported or unprosecuted.