Abuse and Neglect

  • Vincent J. Palusci
  • Ellen L. Datner
  • Christine Wilkins
Chapter

Abstract

This chapter reviews abuse and neglect among children and adults with disabilities, and highlights the importance of identifying abuse and neglect in these individuals because of their increased vulnerability, difficulties in communication, and potential for ongoing victimization. Patterns of presentation of victimization are discussed and suggestions are given to aid in their recognition among several challenged populations. Developmental considerations in the evaluation of abuse are reviewed, as well as interviewing children with developmental disabilities and supporting parents with developmental disabilities. Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and abuse are also discussed, including issues with parenting and intervening with adults who have a disability. We conclude with recommendations to improve practice among adults and children with disabilities.

Keywords

Intimate Partner Violence Sexual Abuse Child Abuse Intellectual Disability Child Protective Service 
These keywords were added by machine and not by the authors. This process is experimental and the keywords may be updated as the learning algorithm improves.
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Notes

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank J. Manders, A. Grosvald-Hamilton, P. Toth, and J. Kenniston for additional information provided by personal communication. Additional information is available from: Teachers College, Columbia University [producer]. Child Abuse and Children with Disabilities: A New York State Perspective: 2004 [CD-ROM]. Available from New York State Office of Children and Family Services. Readers are directed to this article with the full list of citations and references: Palusci VJ, Datner E, Wilkins C. Developmental disabilities: Abuse and neglect in children and adults. International Journal of Child Health and Human Development 2015;8(4) 407–428.

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Copyright information

© Springer International Publishing Switzerland 2016

Authors and Affiliations

  • Vincent J. Palusci
    • 1
  • Ellen L. Datner
    • 2
  • Christine Wilkins
    • 3
  1. 1.New York University School of Medicine, Bellevue Hospital CenterNew YorkUSA
  2. 2.Frances L Loeb Child Protection and Development CenterBellevue HospitalNew YorkUSA
  3. 3.New York University, Langone Medical CenterNew YorkUSA

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