¶ … child abuse and reporting protocols describes in detail federal and state definitions, as well as the professions legally obliged to report. Definitions of child abuse include child neglect as well as sexual abuse. However, in the state of New York there are separate categories of abuse based on severity, with abuse being at the top of the hierarchy, followed by neglect. Emotional abuse is also covered. A large portion of the lecture is about how to recognize child abuse, and especially on how to report it because there are legal as well as ethical obligations to do so. However, the lecture also discusses various types of abuse, the causes of abuse such as addiction, and the impact of abuse on the children.
Prior to the lecture, I did not know how many professions were legally obliged to report child abuse. I also did not know the exact protocols for reporting, and had been previously intimidated because of the bureaucratic nature of state and federal institutions. Written reports and other formal documents are required for processing. I did not previously realize the direct and indirect societal consequences of abuse. After this lecture, I feel much more empowered and confident in my ability to intervene. The decision to intervene is sometimes difficult, especially when it is clear the child's life will be temporarily disrupted or when the parent was someone who is well-known or trusted in the community.
The signs of potential abuse must be taken seriously. However, signs like low self-esteem or aggressive behavior are not always signs of abuse. Physical abuse is much easier to detect, considering the presence of bruising or fractures, versus emotional or sexual abuse. The social worker needs to remain vigilant if a child's behavior is disruptive or out of the ordinary, without jumping to unnecessary conclusions. For example, a child who is being demanding or irritable might be abused, or the child might simply need extra discipline and is trying to get attention. With regards to reporting, maintaining a balance is necessary. On the one hand, it is important to recognize and report abuse. On the other hand, it is important to investigate the situation as thoroughly as possible to avoid false accusations.
