NCJ Number
112972
Date Published
1987
Length
89 pages
Annotation
This training manual is designed to implement section 232.69(3) of Iowa's 1985 child abuse reporting statute, which requires that all mandatory reporters of child abuse must have 2 hours of training in the identification and reporting of child abuse within 1 year of initial employment and 2 more hours once every 5 years thereafter.
Abstract
An overview of the history of child abuse and how Iowa's current reporting system has evolved focuses on child abuse statistics and the causes and effects of child abuse and neglect. Instruction in recognizing and preparing to report child abuse considers signs of physical abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect. A discussion of prereporting procedures encompasses interviews of the child and parents as well as the decision to report. Instruction in reporting suspected child abuse considers the definition of 'mandatory reporter,' legal sanctions for failure to report, reasons for not reporting, preparing to report, and reporting procedures. Information is also provided on what typically happens to caretakers suspected of abuse and suspected child victims. The training concludes with suggestions for primary and secondary child-abuse-and-neglect prevention and treatment. Suggestions for primary and secondary prevention are lay health visitors, parent aides, respite/crisis child care, sexual abuse prevention projects for children, and support for young mothers. Suggestions for treatment are help in meeting crises, developing self-esteem and self-mastery, overcoming social isolation, marital problems, and parenting. Treatment that supports the child is also suggested. 14 references and a review quiz.