Identification and screening for abuse and neglect, identifying risk factors in families, and prevention efforts are critical for maximizing prevention of abuse and neglect in Texas. Texans lack knowledge. Adult Texans are unsure about Texas child abuse and neglect laws. Lack of professional continuing education. Training needs not met.
Professionals benefit from training.
Even experienced professionals have been found to benefit from training in physical and behavioral indicators of child abuse and child abuse laws. Need for training in prevention. A priority should be given to training professionals in prevention before child abuse and neglect take place, emphasizing detection of family risk factors and intervention. Parent education, which addresses needs of parents and children, appropriate developmental expectations and guidance, and preventing accidents and unintentional neglect, is an important tool for prevention for which training of professionals in Texas can be increased. Continuing evaluation and monitoring of the effectiveness of professional preparation to prevent, detect, and intervene in child abuse and neglect needs to be used as the basis for developing a more comprehensive approach to training.