2. Most states require a report to be filed when abuse or neglect is suspected. A delay in
3. Subjective feelings and interpretations must not interfere with prompt reporting of abuse and
ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION
1. Is child maltreatment a new phenomenon? Explain.
2. What is the basic philosophy and intent of reporting laws? Who are they trying to protect and
why?
3. What groups of professionals are typically mandated to report suspected abuse/neglect?
4. How is an incidence of abuse/ neglect reported? What types of information should be
provided?
5. What types of intervention programs would you design to disrupt the cycle of child abuse
based on your understanding of abusive adult characteristics?
6. What is the relationship between stressful events and abuse? Are these events always of
sufficient magnitude to warrant the intensity of an adult’s reaction?
ADDITIONAL APPLICATION ACTIVITIES
The following exercises are designed for instructors to assign as individual or group projects.
1. Volunteer at a local shelter for victims of domestic violence. Describe the experience and post
your reactions on a discussion board.
2. Make arrangements to accompany a child protective service caseworker on an intake or
3. Visit at least 5 agencies or services that assist abusive or neglectful families in your
4. Examine the child abuse and neglect laws in your state. Discuss the rationale for this
legislation. What protective rights do the laws provide for the child and his or her family?