Behavioral Science - Child/Elder Abuse Flashcards
list the risk factors of a child that increase the chance for child abuse
- fussy, colicky infant
- hyperactive
- illness, special needs
- non-biological relationship w/ caregiver
- prematurity
- unwanted pregnancy
- twins
list the risk factors of a caregiver that increase the chance for child abuse
- criminal history
- substance abuse
- mental health history
- misconceptions about child care or child development
- teen parents
- non-biological father figure in home
family environmental factors that increase the chance for child abuse
- social isolation
- intimate partner violence
- high local unemployment rates, poverty
what is the most common cause of death in abused children
neglect
what is the physicians role when suspecting neglect
- full medical history
- psychosocial history
- complete physical exam
then maybe:
- arrange home visit by social worker/home nurse
- arrange “well-check” by police
how is emotional abuse defined
must result in demonstrable harm to the child (impaired psychological growth and development)
list the behavior pattens that ~may~ suggest emotional abuse
- social withdrawal
- excessive anger, aggression
- eating disorders
- failure to thrive
- developmental delays
- depression, anxiety, running away
- sleeping disorders
- self-injurious
what is the physicians role when suspecting emotional abuse
if isolated and in no immediate danger:
- recommend family therapy, parenting classes, supportive therapy, behavior therapy for parents
if recurrent or possible if imminent harm:
- report to CPS
what are some suspicious signs on PE of a child suggesting physical abuse
- bruises, bites, burns
- fractures
- abd trauma
- head trauma
- posterior rib fractures
- scapular fracture
- spinous process injury
- sternal fracture
actions to take when seeing a child with potential physical abuse
- meet separately w/ caregiver to gather info
- photograph injuries
what is non-touching sexual child abuse
- exposing child to pornography
- neglectfully allowing child to see/hear sexual activity
what age range are most children who suffer from sexual abuse
9-12
what is the physicians role when suspecting sexual abuse
History:
- history is the most important (PE is usually normal)
- document using quotations
PE:
- do PE ASAP for dysuria, anal or vaginal bleeding, vaginal discharge, pain on defecation
- for pre-pubertal children: do not touch hymen or use speculum
what child behaviors might indicate sexual abuse
- putting mouth on other child/adult sex parts
- putting objects in vagina/rectum
- touching another child’s sex parts
what is the next step when evaluating a child for sexual abuse
refer for forensic interview (CPS, trained interviewers)
if needing immediate interview: a minimal facts interview
