Challenges and experiences faced by social workers working with children exposed to abuse and neglect

Keneth Tumwesigye

doi:10.23954/osj.v6i1.2692

Abstract

Child abuse and neglect are the most disturbing problems in the field of child welfare. In the area of child welfare, all over the world, it is common social workers engaged with children such as psychologists; nurses and pediatrician are often affected while carrying out their respective duties. The study is intended to explore the dynamic problems such social workers experience in their line of duty. The issue of social workers engaging with children exposed to child abuse and neglect require much attention and it has to be addressed in line with the child protection system. The child protection system is one of the frameworks of the whole child welfare which provide social services to children exposed to abuse and neglect. In the field of child welfare, different social workers for example pediatricians, psychologists etc work together in assessing children in relation to abuse and neglect. Therefore, this study showcases the need for supportive practice for social workers in the field of child protection to work together. Key Words: Child protection, Social worker, Child abuse and neglect,

Highlights

According to Maguire & Naughton (2016), Child abuse and neglect is not a common phenomenon but the effects are more devastating to children compared to other forms of maltreatment
The study participants were selected purposively based on the following criteria; social workers with 1 year experience and more were selected. 1 year experience was a perquisite because social workers were in position to have encountered child abuse and neglect cases being able to share their views and experiences
The social workers who work with children exposed to abuse and neglect are regarded as concerned parents

Summary

Introduction

According to Maguire & Naughton (2016), Child abuse and neglect is not a common phenomenon but the effects are more devastating to children compared to other forms of maltreatment. Such phenomena are difficult to predict and detect because they tend to be gradual in occurrence (Dubowitz, 2013). The concern of dealing with children who are exposed to abuse and neglect has to be addressed in relation to the child protection system and the supportive practice of social workers in the child protection system. Seven in ten boys are physically abused (MGLSD, 2018)

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Results

Discussion

Conclusion