What Is Child Abuse and Neglect? Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms

Course overview

Course Description: This course examines the federal and state definitions of child abuse and neglect, the major types of maltreatment-including physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, abandonment, parental substance use, and human trafficking-and the behavioral and physical signs associated with each. Practitioners will develop proficiency in identifying indicators of maltreatment in children and caregivers, applying reporting obligations under mandatory reporter statutes, and recognizing the long-term developmental and psychological consequences of childhood trauma. The course draws from the Child Welfare Information Gateway factsheet produced by the Childrens Bureau, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This course on child abuse and neglect is designed for social workers, professional counselors, psychologists, nurses, and substance abuse counselors, who do clinical work. This course is appropriate for intermediate and advanced level practitioners who wish to develop or increase their knowledge of child maltreatment recognition, reporting, and impact. It may also be useful for licensed clinicians who require continuing education courses for license renewal. Authors: Child Welfare Information Gateway Learning Objectives: This course will provide a professional with detailed information about child abuse and neglect, its definitions, types, signs, and consequences. Specifically, the practitioner will: Differentiate among the major types of child maltreatment-physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, abandonment, and human trafficking-as defined under federal and state law. Identify behavioral and physical indicators of physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, and emotional maltreatment in both children and caregivers. Apply knowledge of mandatory reporting obligations and the long-term developmental and psychological consequences of childhood maltreatment to clinical practice. Citation: Child Welfare Information Gateway. (2019). What is child abuse and neglect? Recognizing the signs and symptoms. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Childrens Bureau. https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/what-child-abuse-and-neglect-recognizing-signs-and-symptoms/