Is this child abuse?

[AnyDream]

OW, I understand what a serious issue this is, especially given the dangers of living on a station.

But personally I feel deeply uncomfortable about resorting to the use of an electric fence, it just doesn't sit right with me.

HOWEVER I think you could do more about your locks etc. My DH is by no means a handy man and he has fitted key-locks to every window, it only takes drilling and screwing. You can add additional holes so the windows can be locked in a partially open position too, in case you need it for ventilation etc. It cost us no more than $100 or so dollars to do every window in the house. If you choose the locks with the same number it means they will all open with the same key, and you can concentrate on keeping that key in a secure place.

Also, you might have to compromise regarding the dead locks, maybe you could put a hook up above the door (ie out of reach even if he stands on a chair) and keep a key up there permanently against the fire risk, or think about putting a sliding bolt up at the top of the door(s).

Also - if the issue is about him wandering around out of bed, perhaps think about putting a privacy lock on his bedroom door with the latch facing outwards, and fitting a good lock onto his bedroom window. If you check on him often, and can hear into his room (use a monitor for peace of mind) and his room is properly child-proofed (ie no uncovered electricity sockets, shelves & drawers bracketed to the walls so they can't tip if he climbs, no small toys or bits he could choke on) then you could lock the door while he (and you) are sleeping.

The other tack is to think about why it is that he's so keen to escape. Is he bored? Is he looking for something or someone? I don't think this level of escapism is entirely normal so it might be worth checking out the behavioural side of things in case there are some strategies you could be using there.

HTH