Key Indicators of Physical Abuse

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

LITERATURE REVIEW1

Physical Abuse1

Changes in Definitions and Implications to Social Work1

Impact upon Victim3

Identification of Physical Abuse4

Physical Indicators of Abuse in Children4

Behavioural and Emotional Indicators of Abuse5

Management by Social Workers7

Conclusion8

REFERENCES10

BIBLIOGRAPHY11

LITERATURE REVIEW

Physical Abuse

Physical Abuse has short and long-term physical, psychological, and behavioural consequences. Trying to separate completely the consequences of this type of abuse is impossible as the implications crossover among categories. The impact of physical abuse may differ according to the type of abuse and the age of onset, showing a worse outcome when the abuse was experienced at an early age (Beckett, 2010, p. 63). The literature suggests abuse that occurs early in life is more likely to have permanent effects and promote the onset of behaviour problems. Other factors that influence the extent of trauma are the relationship between the victim and the abuser, the length and frequency of the abuse, and the use of violence during the abuse (Beckett, 2010, p. 63).

Changes in Definitions and Implications to Social Work

In the past, little attention has been given to the need of individual psychotherapy for the abused child unless the child showed severe psychological problems. Regardless of the symptoms the child may present, individual treatment for severe physical and sexual abused children is essential to help the child cope with the feelings and emotions related to the abuse. According to the literature, cognitive confusion is the child's initial respond to the physical abuse (Gillham, 1994, p. 13). The physically abused child tries to find an explanation about why the abuse has happened. One of the most important goals in treatment is to develop a trusting, consistent, and supportive relationship with the child reassuring the child's safety. Other goals consist on firstly helping the child identify, express, and handle his or her emotions toward the parent and the abuse (Gillham, 1994, p. 13). Secondly, treatment assists the child in the learning of appropriate interaction skills with adults, and non-abusive ways of seeking and obtaining affection and attention. Thirdly, therapy encourages the self-awareness and understanding of his or her own rights as a child while preventing future maltreatment. Empowering the child with age-appropriate self-protection skills is a goal. Overall, to diminish isolation, the child has to be able to redevelop a realistic basic trust in people and in his/her world.

The concept of physical abuse and maltreatment has been defined and redefined throughout history. Infanticide practices and sexual exploitation were not uncommon in early history. The child mortality rate was extremely high as consequence of severe beatings, long hours in poor working conditions, malnutrition, epidemics, and childhood disease (Gillham, 1994, p. 14).

During colonial expansion of America, children were often imprisoned, punished or killed if they refused to be transported to the colonies. Children from African slaves owed their allegiance to their parents as well as to their masters who sold them or used them as slaves for work or sex. Immigrant and Native American children had the same ...