1. Stopping Maltreatment
Preventing abuse requires changing the situations in which abuse occurs.
Parenting Classes
-skills for raising children
-helps avoid feeling overwhelmed
-stressed parents can discuss emotions & share solutions
Young/Immature Parents
-wait until older/financially stable to have children

2. Mandated Reporter
A person who is required by law to report maltreatment.
People who work with children.
Ex: teachers, doctors, nurses, counselors
Vary from state to state.

3. Court may terminate parental rights.
Reporting Abuse
Anyone who suspects abuse should contact child protective agencies right away.
Child Welfare Agency
-sends someone to investigate
-if child is in danger, court may place in foster home
-if history of abuse or severe injuries, parents may be arrested & charged with crimes
Court may terminate parental rights.

4. Treatment and counseling
Solving the Problem
Prison = temporary protection, not a solution to the problem
Treatment and counseling
-to understand reasons for abuse
-to end abuse
-learn how to care for children & treat them in loving ways

5. Crisis Nursery
A child care facility where troubled parents can go to receive short-term, free child care.
-Many open 24 hrs/day
-Provides safe environment for child
-Gives parents a chance to cool off
-Often provide parenting classes, counseling, job training.

6. Treatment for Abused Children
Usually through counseling sessions w/ mental health professionals who have experience w/ victimized children.
Why Counseling?
Helps people make sense of feelings/behavior
Improves interactions with others
Each affected person may be involved in individual counseling.

7. Goals of Counselors Protecting children from further harm.
Improving family communication.
Encouraging healthy friendships between children & their peers.
Teaching mistreated children to take care of themselves and to make choices that help keep them safe.
Helping kids have realistic expectations of parents who have problems.
Providing a safe place to express anger, disappointment, sadness.