A key issue in your Reading and Viewing assignments this week is child maltreatment and the resulting physical, cognitive, and emotional effect it has on the developing child. Previously quoted developmental psychologist Berger (2017) suggests that we are collectively responsible for addressing and preventing childhood maltreatment, as “the consequences of maltreatment involve not only the child but also the entire community” (p. 228).
Reflect upon this idea of collective responsibility. How do the systems you are a part of (e.g, churches, schools, places of employment, etc.) contribute to the situations that perpetuate child maltreatment? Conversely, what policies/procedures do these systems have in place to protect children? Conduct some research to learn about the reporting policies and procedures that are in place for child maltreatment cases. What connections from the reporting policies and procedures you’ve observed can be made to those you discovered in your research?
Reflect upon the ways that you have encountered the issue of child maltreatment either in your personal or professional life. What resources did you have, or did you need, to address the issue? Please refrain from using any identifying features of individuals or locations in your response.
Child maltreatment is an issue prevalent in the fields of psychology and nursing. How can you prepare now to take responsibility for preventing and/or addressing abuse?
Arguments should be supported by specific and concrete examples. For sources, use the text along with a biblical quotation and/or reference. (No NKJV or KJV please) When referencing the textbook, use APA formatting for sources that include the author and date of publication. For example use, “Kail & Cavanaugh (2019) state. . . .” Also include a reference list at the end of your post.
Reference
Berger, K. S. (2017). The developing person: Through the life span (10th ed.). New York: Worth Publishers.
