NCJ Number
95510
Journal
School Counselor Dated: (November 1982) Pages: 101-109
Date Published
1982
Length
9 pages
Annotation
The school counselor's role in identifying and responding to abuse in families is described, and a model for responding to family violence is presented.
Abstract
School counselors are in a good position to increase school personnel's awareness of child abuse and to provide leadership in responding to abused children and their families. Counselors' unique role involves their creditability, position, and opportunity for maintaining a long-term relationship with the children and their familiies. This ongoing relationship can provide consistency and followup for both children and families; it can bring support to children and families during periods of treatment and stress; and it can preserve positive gains, anticipate problems, and monitor developments that may require further intervention. When school counselors suspect abusive behavior, they should initiate action. They may act as a liaison between the school, the child, and the appropriate referral agency. In addition, they may identify abuse and encourage action, provide support, and coordinate treatment. Sixteen references are included.