1. Handout B-2



      Handout B-2



       


      Responding to the child in concerns of abuse and neglect


       

      DO:

      · Remain calm. A child may retract information or stop talking if he/she senses a strong reaction.
      · Find a private place to talk without interruptions.
      · Put the child at ease by sitting near him/her.
      · Ask permission before touching the child. Touch may be associated with physical or emotional pain in children who have been physically or sexually abused.
      · Reassure the child that he/she is not in trouble.
      · Use the child’s vocabulary.
      · Support the child: “I am sorry that happened to you.”
      · Do what you can to make certain that the child is safe from further abuse.
       



      DO NOT:

      ·   Press for details. You do not need to prove abuse or neglect.

      ·   Ask “why” questions. These questions require children to explain actions that they may not understand.

      ·   Promise that you will not tell anyone about the child’s disclosure.

      ·   Ask leading or suggestive questions.

      ·   Make angry or critical comments about the alleged perpetrator. The child often knows, loves, or likes this person.

      ·   Disclose information indiscriminately, keeping in mind the child’s right to privacy.

      ·  alt Make the child feel different or singled out.

      ·   Investigate a case yourself. Call the police or CPS.

       

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