2. Help Stop Child Abuse What You Need to Know...

3. The Problem Georgia 2003 92,612 total reports92,612 total reports 27,911 real incidences27,911 real incidences Every 30 minutes a childEvery 30 minutes a child is a confirmed victim 70 fatalities70 fatalities 66% of child deaths related to abuse or neglect were determined to be preventable66% of child deaths related to abuse or neglect were determined to be preventable 83% of abusers are the parents of the child83% of abusers are the parents of the child

4. Types of Abuse Neglect Physical Sexual Emotional

5. Possible Signs of Neglect Physical Neglect Not Providing:  Adequate food & clothing  Appropriate medical care care  Supervision  Proper weather protection protection (heat & coats) (heat & coats) Behavior  Stealing food  Constant fatigue  Inappropriate seeking of attention

6. Possible Signs of Physical Abuse Physical Signs Burns, Cuts, Welts or Bruises (unexplained)Burns, Cuts, Welts or Bruises (unexplained) Swollen areasSwollen areas Bald spots on scalpBald spots on scalp Behavioral Signs Afraid to go home Behavioral Extremes – either passive or aggressive Bizarre explanation of injuries Wary of adult contact

7. Possible Indicators of Sexual Abuse Physical Indicators  Difficulty in walking or sitting  Stained or torn undergarments Behavioral Indicators  Mature sexual knowledge  Aggressive acting out  Poor peer relationship  Reports sexual abuse  Sexually acting out on younger children

8. Possible Signs of Emotional Abuse Possible Signs of Emotional Abuse Physical  Speech disorders  Behind in physical development  Failure to thrive  Hyperactive/disruptive behavior Behavioral  Bad Habits  Conduct/learning disorders  Behavior extremes  Suicide attempts  Behavior development lags

9. Georgia Law School employees are mandated reporters (follow protocol of reporting) Immunity from liability Confidential Failure to report – GUILTY of misdemeanor

10. Good Responses to a Student )I believe you. )I’m glad you told me. )It is not your fault this happened. )(Sexual) abuse is wrong. )I will do whatever I can to help and support you.

11. Responses to Avoid ;Are you sure this is happening? ;Are you telling me the truth? ;Why are you telling me? ;Let me know if this happens again. ;Why didn’t you stop it? ;What did you do to make this happen?

12. Reporting Abuse K Immediately tell the Counselor K If a Counselor is not available, talk with an Administrator. K Do not call DFACS on your own

13. Just think... You might just save a student’s life! Just think... You might just save a student’s life!