This award-winning series provides professionals with the tools to identify and intervene on behalf of children and families in crisis to ensure that appropriate referrals and interventions can be quickly initiated. The programs utilize case studies in which the environment of the child is explored, the characteristics of the perpetrators and victims are discussed, the signs and symptoms of abuse and/or neglect are delineated, and resources for professionals are provided.THE VULNERABLE YOUNG CHILD
Discusses factors in the child, the family, the environment, and in the culture itself that cause young children to be vulnerable to inadequate parenting, abuse and neglect. Discusses resiliency in children. Details measures that professionals can take to assist children who are at risk. 29 minutes
NEGLECT AND SEXUAL ABUSE
Defines neglect and discusses characteristics of negligent parents or guardians. Discusses effects of neglect on children of different ages, and describes the nonorganic failure-to-thrive syndrome. Delineates activities that are deemed sexually abusive, the characteristics of perpetrators and victims, the phases of sexual abuse, and the physical and behavioral signs. Concludes by discussing the many-faceted and catastrophic effects of sexual abuse on children. 28 minutes
PSYCHOLOGICAL AND PHYSICAL ABUSE
Defines psychological abuse and discusses its effects on children. Discusses characteristics of adults who physically abuse children and illustrates common physical signs of adult-inflicted injuries. Discusses effects of physical abuse on children's emotional and social development. Concludes by identifying women during pregnancy and in the postpartum period who may be at risk for maltreating their children. 24 minutes
*Closed Captioned