Long-Term Consequences of Child Abuse and Neglect 1 CE

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 Course Description: In the United States, 676,569 children were victims of child abuse or neglect in 2011 alone. Child abuse and neglect can create long-term consequences for children, families and society and can manifest as physical health problems, psychological problems, behavioral problems and societal problems.

In Long-Term Consequences of Child Abuse and Neglect, Participants will begin with a synopsis of factors affecting the consequences of child abuse and neglect.  Next, Participants will consider physical health consequences of child abuse and neglect, with special emphasis on abusive head trauma; impaired brain development; and poor physical health.  Additionally, Participants will learn about psychological consequences that researchers have linked to child abuse and neglect, such as: difficulties during infancy; poor mental and emotional health; cognitive difficulties; and social difficulties. 

Also, Participants will explore how child abuse and neglect seem to increase the likelihood of the following behavioral consequences: difficulties during adolescence; juvenile delinquency and adult criminality; alcohol and other drug abuse; and abusive behavior.  Next, Participants will examine how child abuse and neglect creates both direct and indirect consequences for society. 

Participants will become familiar with the actions communities must take to prevent abuse and neglect from occuring.  Finally, Participants will consider the importance of addressing the needs of children and adults who have experienced abuse and neglect by utilizing a trauma-informed approach.

This course is intended to provide child welfare professionals, mental health professionals and social workers with an overview of the long-term consequences of child abuse and neglect.

Course Objectives:·    

• To be familiar with the factors affecting the consequences of child abuse and neglect
• To be aware of physical health consequences of child abuse and neglect
• To identify psychological consequences linked to child abuse and neglect
• To consider the behavioral consequences of child abuse and neglect
• To explore societal consequences of child abuse and neglect
• To understand that communities must take both preventative and reactive actions