Signs of maltreatment in school aged children, adaptation of an instrument

With the aim to identify signs of maltreatment in school aged children the instrument “Signs of maltreatment in preschool children” was adapted.   Professionals in the Swedish school system meet all children between 6... [ view full abstract ]

With the aim to identify signs of maltreatment in school aged children the instrument “Signs of maltreatment in preschool children” was adapted.  

Professionals in the Swedish school system meet all children between 6 and 16 years of age. Their ability to identify children at risk for maltreatment is important and they pay a considerable role in early detection and prevention of trauma in children. In an earlier study an instrument to identify signs of maltreatment in preschool children was developed and validated in a group of child health nurses and preschool teachers.  

The adapted instrument was adapted to school age and discussed in an expert group.  School professionals (n=32) from six different schools for children 6-15 years and were interviewed using “think-aloud” technique while answering the question in the instrument. The participants had various occupations such as: teachers, school nurses and counsellors, principals and school assistant personal.

In total 32 cases were reported (19♂, 12 ♀, mean age 11 years). The most commonly reported symptom of maltreatment was, physical neglect and emotional unavailability in the parent – child relation. Domestic violence was highlighted in slightly fewer cases as well as inability to adapt to the needs of the child, leaving the child unattended. Unauthorized absences and the child being isolated with limited opportunity to meet others was also problems reported. Observed bruises were rare but occurred in five of the reported cases. The questions in the instrument were conveyed as adequate. The participants expressed that their often vague worries for child maltreatment would benefit from these concrete questions.

In conclusion the instrument can be used to facilitate identification of child abuse and neglect in children and increase notifications to social authorities. Thus more children could get support needed.