NCJ Number
96554
Date Published
1984
Length
112 pages
Annotation
This handbook describes the role of the teacher in detecting and reporting child abuse and neglect.
Abstract
Signs of physical abuse, physical neglect, sexual abuse, and emotional abuse are highlighted. Three types of knowledge with which well-prepared educators should be armed before encountering a case of child maltreatment are addressed: (1) knowledge of their State's reporting laws, (2) knowledge of the school reporting policy or procedure, and (3) knowledge of the protective agency designated to accept reports. Teachers are urged to validate their suspicions of child abuse, thus improving the reporting process, by documentation, consultation with other professionals, and communication with the child and parents. The events that take place after the teacher's report has been filed are noted, with attention to the decisions made by the protective service agency. The agency must decide if the case warrants further investigation, if it is safe for the child to remain at home, and if the family will agree to receive help. Suggestions for teachers to follow in regard to court appearances and additional actions taken on the child's behalf are included. Profiles of the physically abusive parent, the neglectful parent, the sexually abusive parent, and the emotionally abusive parent are provided. Ways that teachers can help children by helping their families are outlined. Finally, immediate and long-term measures that may be taken to prevent child abuse and neglect are examined. Eight appendixes list physical and behavioral indicators of child abuse and neglect, explain mandatory reporting requirements by State, provide resources on reporting information and immunity, and present a sample reporting form. A total of 41 references are included.