The following risk factors in the social environment may lead to child abuse (Boos, 2018): ● Unplanned pregnancy ● Poverty ● Acute or chronic stressors in the home environment (such as job loss) ● Parents with low education levels ● Parents with a negative view of their child’s normal developmental behaviors Clinicians should always assess for the potential or actual presence of child abuse and report any suspicions to the local authorities per the guidance of state laws. Healthcare Consideration: Children represent a particularly vulnerable group within society, making it crucial for healthcare providers to prioritize their safety and well-being. When there is a suspicion of child abuse or neglect, it is essential to follow mandated reporting procedures to ensure proper intervention and protection for the child. Additionally, documenting these suspicions in the health record contributes to a comprehensive record of the child’s care and can assist in future assessments and investigations. By advocating for the rights and safety of children, healthcare providers play a vital role in safeguarding this vulnerable population. ● Substance abuse in the home ● Caregiver with a history of abuse ● Animal cruelty ● Psychiatric illness in the caregiver
Self-Assessment Quiz Question #3 Monique and her husband, Isaiah, have been married for five years and struggle with finances. Isaiah demands that Monique adhere to a strict cultural rule of how she dresses and her role within the home. Monique reflects on Isaiah’s demands and realizes he has been watching pornography and using multiple forms of alcohol. He demands that she engage in acts driven by his desire for coercive “fantasy play,” as he calls it. Given these circumstances, it is apparent that Monique: a. Should ask others for advice. b. Must ask for an increase in her autonomy. c. Is a victim of sexual violence. d. Must monitor Isaiah’s behaviors for abuse. Self-Assessment Quiz Question #4 Monique discusses Isaiah’s behavior with her closest confidant, Kathy, her sister. Kathy sympathizes but says, “It is always something. I know with my husband, the problem is sex. When he wants it, he wants it, and sometimes he even forces himself on me.” In Kathy’s circumstances, she: a. Is experiencing a form of domestic violence. b. Should question if forced sex exists in a marital relationship. c. Is experiencing domestic violence, but Monique is not. d. Should accept the situation since it does not happen too often.
ADOLESCENTS/TEENS AND VIOLENCE
experiences may continue throughout life, including college and adulthood. TDV is commonly associated with socioeconomic status and is more likely to occur in specific populations, such as those who participate in high-risk behaviors. Because of poor self-image or lack of control in complex relationships, TDV is associated with risky health behaviors, such as drug use, alcohol use, marijuana use, and unprotected sex. These risky behaviors, coupled with a poor self-image or coping mechanisms, can lead to unhealthy weight control, unwanted pregnancies, and antisocial behaviors (fighting), leading to legal ramifications and suicide. Teens have voiced that they want to be asked about violence when seeking healthcare from their provider. The Conflict Tactics scale has been used to measure the prevalence of the TDV phenomenon to assess teen violence. The Conflict Tactics scale was first developed in 1972 to examine specific acts and events used in conflict, including acts of physical violence, and is guided by conflict theory (Straus et al., 1996). Although there have been many interpretations of conflict theory, the central premise is that one person or group controls or dictates another person or group. Variables include competition, inequality, revolution, and even war. When thinking about IPV, this seems to help explain the behavior of the abuser seeking power and control over another human being, even if that involves violence to obtain control (Straus et al., 1996). This can be observed in TDV, where the abuser does not want their partner to participate in activities with others. At first, the person may think this is love, as their partner wants to spend only their time with them. However, as time progresses, it is evident that this is controlling behavior.
Adolescent and teen dating violence is intentional physical, sexual, or psychological violence or stalking by current or former partners (Campo-Tena et al., 2023). Violence in this population can also include electronic intimidation through phones and social media. Although there are similarities between adult and teen violence, adolescents and teens have specific issues because of their unique developmental stages. When adolescents are involved in an abusive relationship, anger, and physical aggression are most often utilized to deal with conflict. Healthcare Consideration: Adolescents can experience various disorders that may be attributed to the effects of violence, underscoring the importance of routine assessments for abuse risk and noncoping mechanisms among all age groups, including teenagers. Healthcare providers should prioritize comprehensive evaluations that consider the potential impact of violence on adolescents’ mental health and well-being. By routinely assessing for abuse and noncoping mechanisms, healthcare providers can identify early warning signs, intervene promptly, and provide appropriate support and resources tailored to the unique needs of teenagers affected by violence. Females experienced higher rates of physical and sexual dating violence than males. Additionally, LGBTQI+ individuals also experienced higher rates of physical and sexual dating violence than cisgender individuals (CDC, 2023). These factors merge in many situations to have long- lasting and deadly consequences for young experiencing dating violence (CDC, 2023). Adolescents and teens who experience unhealthy, abusive, or violent relationships are more likely to develop depression and anxiety, engage in substance use, have thoughts of suicide, and engage in lying, theft, bullying, and hitting (CDC, 2023). These
Page 7
Book Code: MIL1224
EliteLearning.com/Massage-Therapy
Powered by FlippingBook