Analyze factors that contribute to child abuse and to child neglect.
Analysis should include
- definition of the terms child abuse and child neglect
- identifying the myths of child abuse
- identifying types of child abuse and child neglect
- describing signs of abuse and/or neglect
- identifying typical characteristics of abusive parents
- recognizing abusive behavior in yourself
- identifying reasons a parent may have inappropriate expectations of a child at different stages of development
- describing reasons a parent may not be empathetic toward a child’s needs
- explaining role reversal (pattern of behavior that demands that a child care for the physical and emotional needs of the adult)
- describing an overly strong parental belief in the use of punishment.
Process/Skill Questions
Thinking
- Why should society be concerned about child abuse?
- What are the types of abuse and neglect?
- What are some warning signs that one may be crossing the line into child abuse?
- What are some myths about child abuse?
Communication
- What communication skills do parents need to prevent abuse and neglect of children?
- How does emotional immaturity lead to abuse and neglect?
- What values and beliefs lead parents away from abuse or neglect and toward more positive parenting?
- What messages does abuse or neglect send to a child?
Leadership
- Why do parents who were themselves victims of abuse or neglect tend to be abusers?
Management
- What management skills help parents maintain control of their feelings and behavior?
- What resources are available to parents who need counseling or assistance with anger management?
- What should an individual do if they suspect that a child has been abused?