Psychology and Dentistry by Ayer William Jr.;

Author:Ayer, William, Jr.;
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Group
Published: 2005-08-15T00:00:00+00:00

Child Abuse and Neglect

Children injure themselves in the course of a normal day and sustain bruises, cuts, and abrasions, along with broken bones. Most children exhibit bruises on their bodies at any given time (Needleman, 1986). It becomes necessary to distinguish between accidental types of injuries and injuries resulting from abuse and neglect.

Defining Abuse and Neglect

Mouden and Bross (1995) on the basis of their review of the statutes of all the states, have defined abuse as “non-accidental injuries or trauma inflicted on a minor child by a parent or caregiver” and neglect as “a failure to provide adequate care, support, nutrition or medical or surgical care” (p. 1174). This definition of neglect may be somewhat problematic. For example, if parents are economically advantaged, failure to provide needed dental care could be viewed as “neglect.” If the family could not afford dental care, they would not be viewed as neglecting the needs of the child.

It was initially believed that child abuse occurred most frequently in lower socioeconomic groups and among minorities. Most recent reports (Becker, Needleman, and Kotelchuck, 1978) suggest that it occurs at all socioeconomic levels and in every ethnic group. It may, however, be more frequently reported in lower socioeconomic groups. (Kempe, 1971).

The victims tend to be equally divided according to sex. In cases of sexual abuse, the victims tend to be largely female (Larkin, 1994).

The parents or caregivers of the victims tend to come from families with a history of abuse. Victims may be “special” children who cannot respond normally. The abuser may have problems understanding the developmental needs of the child or problems with self-control and anger or impulse management. Alcohol and substance abuse may be noted in the abuser.

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