Child Abuse and Neglect

TRUTH OR FICTION? -- 1

Unintentional physical harm inflicted upon a child is considered physical abuse.

-- 2

Sexual “experimentation” between children is never considered sexual abuse.

-- 3

Keeping a child out of school for an extended period without reason is neglect.

-- 4

Keeping a child in close confinement is a form of emotional, not physical abuse.

-- 5

Physical abuse is the most common form of child maltreatment.

-- 6

Because of the parent-child conflict that characterizes adolescence, children between the ages of 12 and 15 are at the greatest risk of child maltreatment.

-- 7

Domestic violence is a risk factor for abuse and neglect.

-- 8

Physically disabled children are at increased risk of abuse.

-- 9

Parents who use drugs or alcohol are at no greater risk of abusing or neglecting their children than non-substance abusing parents.

-- 10

Abused and neglected children are at greater risk of developing substance abuse problems than are nonmaltreated children.

-- 11

The majority of sexually abused children develop psychiatric disorders.

-- 12

The support of a nonoffen ding parent mitigates the negative effects of child sexual abuse.

-- 13

“Parenting training” programs are recommended for physically abusive parents.

-- 14

Cognitive-behavioral treatment for child abuse and neglect aims to heal the “relational trauma” that follows child maltreatment.

-- 15

Play sessions may help a child who requires a safe, nonthreatening setting to express his or her feelings associated with being abused.