Domestic violence, child abuse, or elder abuse are widespread phenomena occurring in numerous families, yet most cases are never reported. Any kind of violence presumes humiliating and causing physical or mental harm to the vulnerable groups. Any kind of violence causes negative implications for the individual and their surroundings (“What are the signs,” 2021). Whenever a family member demonstrates evident abusive actions, one can report them. Nevertheless, when there are no obvious signs, a reporter or a provider should be able to recognize behavior-specific and physical characteristics.
For example, an instructor can easily notice if their students have eating disorders – a child either eats a lot or is constantly on a diet. The major indicator of domestic violence is the presence of wounds or bruises on one’s body (“What are the signs,” 2021). It is evident when a person is suffering from physical abuse resorts to a healthcare facility with the injury-related problems and report false injury causes. A mental health specialist may also indicate elderly abuse in case a senior citizen shows signs of mental disorder but claims to be treated by their family members (“What are the signs,” 2021). In addition, they may send much money to one person or say that their finances are managed by their children or other people.
In general, the providers should be able to identify the markers of abuse by paying closer attention to the people they serve, treat, teach, or work with. In my facility, the alleged reporter is required to contact social services to ensure the exposed individual is actually under threat. If the violence is proved, my facility reports the case to the local law enforcement agency that decides which actions to take.
Reference
What are the signs of domestic violence?(2021). PsychCentral.