Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect Volunteer Leader Training Penn State Cooperative Extension Capital Region September 2000 Edward J. Bender Adams County Karen Hack Franklin County

Child Abuse and Neglect Types of abuse Indicators of abuse Reporting abuse Dealing with the victim Material for this presentation was taken from For Their Sake, Johnson, Becca Cowen. American Camping Association, Martinsville, IN

What Is Abuse? Child abuse and neglect means the physical or mental injury, sexual abuse or exploitation, negligent treatment, or maltreatment of a child under the age of eighteen. »Federal Child Abuse and Treatment Act.

Types of Abuse Physical: –Occurs when someone inflicts bodily harm that leaves a physical injury. Sexual : –Involves the sexual mistreatment of child.

Types of Abuse Neglect –Occurs when parents or guardians fail to provide for the child. Emotional Abuse –“…the chronic and persistent act by an adult that endangers the mental health or emotional development of a child.” »San Francisco Child Abuse Council

Types of Abuse Imminent Risk –A situation in which abuse was likely to occur but did not. –Where there is a high probability of injury to a youth.

Indicators Also known as… …red flags. …warning signs. …symptoms. …danger signals. …clues.

Indicators of Physical Abuse Behavioral Extremely aggressive or withdrawn Frightened of parents or going home Behavior problems at school Physical Unexplained Bruises Welts Burns Fractures Abrasions (or explanation inconsistent or improbable)

Indicators of Sexual Abuse Behavioral Exhibits unusual sexual behavior for age Poor peer relations Fearful or anxious Physical Wets the bed (Hidden from View) Torn, bloody, stained underclothing Bruised, itching, swollen genitalia

Indicators of Neglect Behavioral Begs or steals food Uses/Abuses alcohol and/or other drugs Engages in delinquent behavior Physical Frequently dirty, unwashed or inappropriately dressed Tired and Listless

Indicators of Emotional Abuse Behavioral Overly eager to please Seeks out adult contact Exhibits aggressive or bizarre behavior Physical Sleep disorders Developmental lags Exhibits eating disorders

Reporting Abuse Mandated Reporters Those who, by the nature of their employment, have contact with children. All Extension Staff Members

Why Should You Get Involved? Because it affects those you work with. Because you are often the first to know. Because you care.

If You Suspect Abuse Notify the County Extension Staff Immediately. –4-H Coordinator –4-H Program Assistant –County Extension Director –Extension Staff –County Children & Youth Services

What Is Reported Name of minor Address of minor Extent of injury or molestation Name and address of perpetrator (If known) Is there immediate danger to the youth?

Dealing With The Victim Assure privacy but not confidentiality Be calm Believe the child

Dealing With The Victim Reassure the child Get help yourself Be careful of what you say or promise

Dealing with the Victim Reassure the victim that it wasn’t their fault Get the facts…don’t interrogate

In Review Types of abuse Indicators of abuse Reporting abuse Dealing with the victim