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Evaluation of child abuse reporting by physicians.
American Journal of Diseases of Children (1960)
|April 1, 1985
Summary
Physicians reported most physical and sexual abuse cases but hesitated on neglect. Uncertainty and belief in family-based solutions were key reasons for not reporting child abuse and neglect.
Area of Science:
- Medical Law
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
Background:
- Physician reporting of child abuse and neglect is critical for child protection.
- Limited data exists on physicians' practices and attitudes regarding child abuse reporting.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate child abuse and neglect diagnosis rates among physicians in Virginia.
- To examine physicians' reporting practices for different types of child abuse and neglect.
- To identify physician-reported barriers to child abuse and neglect reporting.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire survey was distributed to practicing physicians in Virginia.
- The survey assessed the frequency of diagnosed child abuse and neglect cases.
- Physicians' reporting intentions and reasons for non-reporting were collected.
Main Results:
- Physicians diagnosed few cases of child abuse and neglect, with 26% reporting none in the past year.
- High reporting intent was observed for physical abuse (91%) and sexual abuse (92%).
- Lower reporting intent was noted for physical neglect (58%), emotional abuse (45%), and medical neglect (43%).
- Primary reasons for non-reporting included diagnostic uncertainty and preference for family-based interventions.
Conclusions:
- Physicians encounter limited cases of child abuse and neglect.
- Reporting rates vary significantly by abuse/neglect type, with neglect types being underreported.
- Diagnostic uncertainty and perceived efficacy of family intervention are significant barriers to reporting.