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Prevention of Child Abuse: Possibilities for Educational Systems (From School-Based Affective and Social Interventions, P 139-153, 1987, Susan G Forman, ed. -- See NCJ-110677)

NCJ Number
110682
Author(s)
C P Holmes
Date Published
1987
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This article examines the expanding roles of school personnel in handling child abuse and neglect cases and provides suggestions for sexual abuse-prevention education for adolescents and children.
Abstract
The author reviews the type of information which should be reported to the department of social services in cases of child abuse and provides some basic suggestions for obtaining information when child abuse is suspected. New developments in child abuse prevention are described, and suggestions are made concerning sexual abuse prevention education for adolescents and children. It is indicated that educational personnel can assist in curbing all forms of abuse and neglect by teaching courses in parenting, child safety and protection, and human sexuality. The key elements in a long-range approach to child sexual abuse resulting from a task group of the Boys Clubs of America are provided. These include (1) an awareness effort, (2) an educational effort, (3) the development of program materials, and (4) provision of training. Guidelines developed by the national YMCA for management practices related to reporting procedures, staffing standards, code of conduct, and resources for parents are presented. Educational systems are urged to (1) modify hiring and personnel practices to ensure hiring and retaining only the most qualified staff to work with children, (2) assure that the environment in which children learn is safe and adheres to all local standards, and (3) make sure that the school does not allow the use of corporal punishment. School-based programs are described, including a 2-year program that provides information and support for first-time parents. 1 chart and 17 references.