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Physical abuse--physicians knowledge and reporting attitude in Israel
S Offer-Shechter1, E Tirosh, A Cohen
1Technion Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa.
European Journal of Epidemiology
|April 26, 2000
Summary
Many physicians infrequently consider child abuse diagnosis, showing hesitancy in reporting. Enhanced medical training and education are crucial for improving child abuse identification and management in healthcare settings.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Family Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Physical child abuse remains a significant public health concern.
- Physicians' knowledge and attitudes are critical for effective identification and intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of pediatricians and family physicians in northern Israel regarding physical child abuse.
- To identify factors influencing physicians' diagnostic and reporting behaviors for child abuse.
Main Methods:
- A survey using multiple-choice questions and vignettes was conducted.
- A stratified sample of 107 physicians from diverse backgrounds and practice settings participated.
Main Results:
- 43% of physicians infrequently or never considered child abuse diagnosis, with some hesitant to report.
- Physicians showed inconsistency in diagnosis and management approaches.
- Medical training/cultural background and discipline impacted knowledge, but knowledge did not correlate with reporting behavior.
Conclusions:
- Physician knowledge and reporting of child abuse require improvement.
- Medical schools and health administrations must enhance abuse-oriented education and training.
- Targeted interventions are needed, especially in transitional societies.