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Alyoubi R. Understanding Child Abuse and Neglect Indications: Insights From Medical Students. Cureus 2024; 16:e62860. [PMID: 39040741 PMCID: PMC11260693 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.62860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Child abuse is a severe issue that impacts medical professionals and patients globally. It can lead to discomfort, risk, or even the demise of a child. One of the most significant facets of a doctor's work involves providing aid to those in need; since children are more dependent on others for care and safety, they should receive attention that is even more special in quality. Hence, this study aims to assess the views, professional experiences, and comprehension of Saudi Arabian medical students regarding child abuse and neglect (CAN). METHODOLOGY This study was carried out at Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital. It involved 65 students who were either victims of child abuse or the relatives/family members of child abuse victims. RESULTS The participants' awareness of several critical components of CAN was considerable. However, their understanding regarding the reporting of CAN cases was rather meager. Furthermore, their views of and professional experience with CAN were not excellent in terms of quality. CONCLUSIONS Saudi Arabia should implement an extensive plan to prevent the abuse of children at any level, given the nation's clinical experience and expertise in this field. The nation's pediatricians should direct as well as assist in this process, thereby playing a major role in preventing and addressing CAN cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem Alyoubi
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, SAU
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Bragança-Souza KK, Lopes de Lisboa J, Silva-Oliveira F, Soares Nunes L, Ferreira E Ferreira E, Gomes VE, Zarzar PMPDA. Health Professionals: Identifying and Reporting Child Physical Abuse-a Scoping Review. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2024; 25:327-340. [PMID: 36747372 DOI: 10.1177/15248380221150949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Health professionals play a significant role in identifying and reporting child physical abuse (CPA). However, several studies have pointed out non-reporting behavior among these professionals, evidencing difficulties identifying and reporting suspected cases. This review aimed to explore the frequency and possible barriers in identifying and reporting CPA by health professionals worldwide and to identify associated factors. This scoping review was conducted in the Pubmed, Web Of Science, Scopus, and SciELO databases between July 2019 and December 2020. Analytical and qualitative observational epidemiological studies were selected and published in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, with data on the identification and/or reporting of CPA by health professionals. Twenty studies fulfilled the criteria of this review. The studies were conducted with dentists, nurses, pediatricians, and general practitioners. The frequency of identification of CPA ranged from 50% to 89%, while the frequency of reporting ranged from 8% to 47%. This review revealed that health professionals had a low frequency of reporting of CPA, especially for dentists. In addition, several associated factors and barriers in the identification and reporting of CPA were identified in the studies. These were discussed in five main themes: training and continuing education in CPA, impact on professional practice, experiences and perceptions about child protection services, the threshold for suspicion of the professional, and the professional category.
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Knowledge Levels and Educational Experiences among Dental Graduates in Saudi Arabia Regarding Child Abuse and Neglect: A National Study. CHILDREN 2021; 8:children8090724. [PMID: 34572156 PMCID: PMC8464775 DOI: 10.3390/children8090724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: Child abuse and neglect (CAN) is considered a serious problem worldwide. Dentists have a significant role in recognizing and reporting CAN cases. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the CAN-related knowledge and educational experiences among Saudi dental graduates. Design: Self-administered questionnaires were distributed to dental graduates from all dental schools in Saudi Arabia (n = 1552). Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the associations between knowledge level and different predictors. Results: A total of 988 dental graduates completed the questionnaire. The majority of them were dissatisfied with the amount of education they had received in their school (56.4%). Around 60% of the participants had inadequate knowledge regarding CAN. Graduates from government schools who received dental education about CAN and female participants had significantly higher odds of having adequate knowledge scores than others (odds ratio = 2.0, 3.1, and 1.7, respectively). Only 39.5% of the participants felt confident in their ability to identify CAN cases, and only 9.7% knew how to report such cases. Conclusions: Graduate dental students have insufficient knowledge about CAN. More time should be dedicated to educating students about this important topic in dental curricula.
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Nilchian F, Tarrahi M, Zare N. A systematic review and meta-analysis of failure to take history as a barrier of reporting child abuse by dentists in private and state clinics. Dent Res J (Isfahan) 2021. [DOI: 10.4103/1735-3327.318936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Mahmoud S, Abd Al Gawad R. Knowledge, attitude, and experience of master degree dental students toward child physical abuse in Egypt: A cross-sectional study. J Int Oral Health 2021. [DOI: 10.4103/jioh.jioh_138_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Saleem MN, Raja HZ, Shakoor A, Rashid H, Nasir H, Yusuf E. Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Dental Practitioners Regarding Domestic Violence in Pakistan. INQUIRY : A JOURNAL OF MEDICAL CARE ORGANIZATION, PROVISION AND FINANCING 2021; 58:469580211060799. [PMID: 34915749 PMCID: PMC8725044 DOI: 10.1177/00469580211060799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Domestic violence is a complex social issue worldwide that includes a wide range of physical, sexual, psychological, economic, or emotional trauma to a child or adult. A large proportion of domestic violence cases remain unreported or undocumented. Dentists can play an important role in identifying and reporting these cases, but no such local study is available assessing the dental practitioners' attitudes and knowledge of evaluating physical abuse in Pakistan. The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge and practices of dental practitioners of Pakistan about domestic violence. This cross-sectional study was carried out over 2 months, among 330 dentists across Pakistan, selected by convenience sampling technique. Data was collected via a pre-validated online questionnaire, filled anonymously after taking informed consent. The survey questionnaire collected data about dentists' demographics, awareness, and experiences about domestic violence cases via close-ended questions. Only 10.6% of participating dentists received formal training in the management of domestic violence cases. Approximately 55% of participants knew that physical abuse should be reported in all circumstances; however, half of them could not accurately identify the legal authorities where suspected cases should be reported. Only 20% of the participating dentists had ever suspected a case of physical abuse and 30% of those actually reported it to legal authorities. Participants characterized fear of anger from relatives as the most significant barrier toward reporting suspected cases. The analysis revealed that Pakistan's dentists lack adequate knowledge regarding domestic violence in terms of identification, relevant physical signs/symptoms, and social indicators. Dentists of Pakistan had insufficient knowledge about the identification, management, and reporting of domestic violence cases. However, formal training and dentists' qualification were positively associated with overall awareness and practices regarding domestic violence case management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Nasir Saleem
- Professor of Operative Dentistry, 462516Institute of Dentistry CMH Lahore Medical College, NUMS, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Hina Zafar Raja
- Professor Prosthodontics, 462516Institute of Dentistry CMH Lahore Medical College, NUMS, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Asma Shakoor
- Associate Professor, 462516Institute of Dentistry CMH Lahore Medical College, NUMS, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Haroon Rashid
- Vice President and Dy Chief Executive, 462516CMH Lahore Medical College, NUMS, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Haiqa Nasir
- 462516Institute of Dentistry CMH Lahore Medical College, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Elyon Yusuf
- Deceased, Former student 462516Institute of Dentistry CMH Lahore Medical College, Lahore, Pakistan
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Silva-Oliveira F, Ferreira RC, Alencar GP, Ferreira EF, Zarzar PM. Reporting of child physical abuse by a group of Brazilian primary care health professionals and associated factors. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2020; 107:104571. [PMID: 32619866 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2020.104571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidences points to the importance of health professionals to recognize child abuse, but also to a high frequency of underreporting, even in countries where reporting is mandatory, like Brazil. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the frequency of non-reporting behavior of child physical abuse (CPA) among Brazilian primary care health professionals who recognized some cases in their careers and associated factors with reporting. METHODS Cross-sectional study conducted with a representative sample of dentists, nurses, family physicians, and pediatricians from the Family Health Strategy network in the city of Belo Horizonte, Brazil. A validated self-administered questionnaire for use in Brazil was applied in-person to professionals in 2014 and 2015. Pearson's chi-squared test (p < 0.05) and a binary logistic regression model was used. RESULTS A total of 715 professionals participated (response rate: 98.89%), 414 (57.3%) recognized cases, of which 171 (41.3%) reported. Reporting was associated with the type of profession, as pediatricians reported cases more than dentists [OR = 6.05 (95% CI: 1.24-29.50)], with the willingness to become involved [OR = 2.01 (95% CI: 1.02-3.97)] and knowledge regarding where to report cases [OR = 2.68 (95% CI: 1.25-5.74)]. Confidentiality was the barrier associated with a lower probability of reporting CPA cases [OR = 0.22 (95% CI: 0.08-0.66)]. CONCLUSIONS There is a high frequency of non-reporting behavior. Pediatricians reported more CPA cases, followed by family doctors and nurses. Dentists were those who reported fewer cases. Reporting was also associated with a willingness to be involved in detecting/reporting abuse and knowing where to report CPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Silva-Oliveira
- Ph D in Public Health at the Faculty of Dentistry of the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Antonio Carlos, 6627 Campus Pampulha, CEP: 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Raquel Conceição Ferreira
- Department of Social and Preventive Dentistry of the Faculty of Dentistry of the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Antonio Carlos, 6627 Campus Pampulha, CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Gizelton Pereira Alencar
- Department of Epidemiology of the School of Public Health of the Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida Dr. Arnaldo, 715, Sala 213, CEP 01246-904, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Efigênia Ferreira Ferreira
- Titular Professor of the Department of Social and Preventive Dentistry of the Faculty of Dentistry of the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais. Av. Antonio Carlos, 6627 Campus Pampulha, CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Patrícia Maria Zarzar
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics of the Faculty of Dentistry of the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Antonio Carlos, 6627 Campus Pampulha, CEP: 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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Özgür N, Ballıkaya E, Güngör HC, Ataç AS. Turkish paediatric dentists’ knowledge, experiences and attitudes regarding child physical abuse. Int Dent J 2020; 70:145-151. [DOI: 10.1111/idj.12532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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Martins-Júnior PA, Ribeiro DC, Peruch GSDO, Paiva SM, Marques LS, Ramos-Jorge ML. Abuso físico de crianças e adolescentes: os profissionais de saúde percebem e denunciam? CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2019; 24:2609-2616. [DOI: 10.1590/1413-81232018247.19482017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Accepted: 10/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Resumo O abuso físico de crianças é definido como qualquer ferida não acidental ou omissão dos seus responsáveis que cause risco à sua integridade. Este estudo objetivou avaliar se profissionais de saúde percebem e denunciam o abuso físico em crianças/adolescentes. Um total de 62 profissionais de saúde (odontólogos, médicos e enfermeiros) de Diamantina/MG, que realizam atendimento a crianças e adolescentes, responderam a um questionário. As variáveis coletadas foram relacionadas à identificação de abuso; denúncia às autoridades e dificuldades para a realização da denúncia. Realizou-se análise de frequência, teste do qui-quadrado e análise de conteúdo. Todos os profissionais relataram ter identificado e denunciado a ocorrência de abuso físico em crianças/adolescentes. Associação significativa foi observada entre a especialidade do profissional e o reconhecimento de abuso, bem como a realização de denúncia às autoridades. As principais dificuldades apresentadas para denunciar os casos às autoridades foram: falta de conhecimento na identificação do abuso e em como realizar a denúncia. A maioria dos participantes gostaria de receber treinamento para identificação e denúncia de abuso. Os profissionais de saúde percebem o abuso infantil, sendo os médicos aqueles que mais denunciam os casos.
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Jakobsen U, Fjallheim AS, Gislason H, Gudmundsen E, Poulsen S, Haubek D. Dental professionals' experience with and handling of suspicion of child maltreatment in a small-scale society, the Faroe Islands. Clin Exp Dent Res 2019; 5:145-150. [PMID: 31049217 PMCID: PMC6483035 DOI: 10.1002/cre2.164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Revised: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The aims of the present study were to describe how frequently dental professionals in a small-scale society like the Faroese Islands, experience suspicion on child maltreatment, and how they handle their suspicion. Furthermore, we wanted to investigate the hypothesis that the special interpersonal characteristics of small-scale societies like the Faroese, influence how dental professionals handle suspicion of child maltreatment compared to how their colleagues in larger societies handled such suspicion. The design of our study was cross-sectional using a non-probability purposive sampling method. A translated and slightly modified version of the Danish questionnaire regarding suspicion on child maltreatment was sent to all 71 dental professionals (44 dentists and 27 dental hygienists) in the Faroe Islands. 51 (72%) returned a valid questionnaire. Of these, 61% experienced suspicion of child maltreatment at some point in their career, 33% within the last 6 months, and 10% percent were certain of child maltreatment during the last six months. Of those respondents who had experienced suspicion at some point of their career, 39% had reported their suspicion. The main reasons for withholding a suspicion were: uncertainty as to whether the suspicion was reliable, fear of the consequences for the child, and lack of procedural knowledge. Faroese dental professionals suspected child maltreatment much more frequently (61%) than their Danish (38%), Scottish (29%), and Croatian colleagues (26%) did. Child maltreatment raises concern among the Faroese dental professionals more frequently than among their colleagues in larger societies. They also seem to report their concern more frequently than their Scottish colleagues do. Thus, the present study indicates that the social structure in small-scale societies may affect dental professionals' suspicions, and handling of child maltreatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Unn Jakobsen
- Municipal Dental Service for Children and Adolescents, KlaksvíkFaroe Islands
| | - Anna Sofia Fjallheim
- University of the Faroe Islands, Faculty of Health Sciences, Centre of Health Science, SjólonVestara BryggjaTórshavnFaroe Islands
| | - Hannes Gislason
- University of the Faroe Islands, The Faculty of Science and Technology, SjólonVestara BryggjaTórshavnFaroe Islands
| | - Eina Gudmundsen
- Municipal Dental Service for Children and Adolescents, Department of Orthodontics, TórshavnFaroe Islands
| | - Sven Poulsen
- Section for Paediatric Dentistry, Department of Dentistry and Oral Health, HealthAarhus UniversityAarhusDenmark
| | - Dorte Haubek
- Section for Paediatric Dentistry, Department of Dentistry and Oral Health, HealthAarhus UniversityAarhusDenmark
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El Tantawi M, Gaffar B, Arheiam A, AbdelAziz W, Al-Batayneh OB, Alhoti MF, Al-Maweri S, Dama MA, Zaghez M, Hassan KS, Al-Sane M, AbdelSalam M, Sabbah W, Owais AI, Abdelgawad F, Aldhelai TA, El Meligy OAES, AlHumaid J, Al-Harbi F. Dentists' intention to report suspected violence: a cross-sectional study in eight Arab countries. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e019786. [PMID: 29602845 PMCID: PMC5884375 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-019786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study assessed dentists' intention in eight Arab countries to report suspected exposure to violence among patients and factors associated with this intention based on the theory of planned behaviour. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2016 including a convenience sample of dentists practising in public, private and academic sectors in Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Libya, Palestine, Saudi Arabia and Yemen. Respondents answered a self-administered questionnaire collecting information about personal and professional background and perceived ability to identify victims of violence. The questionnaire assessed (on a scale from 1 to 10 using six negative statements) dentists' perception of healthcare system mandated reporting of suspected violence. Six statements were used to assess professional attitude towards reporting suspected violence. Logistic regression was used to assess the association between intention to report suspected violence and perceived ability, perception and attitude adjusting for confounders. RESULTS The response rate was 65.2% (n=2936/4506) from general practitioners (70.9%) of mean age=31 years with 56.7% women. Of those, 68.8% intended to report and 52.2% considered themselves able to identify violence victims. The mean (SD) negative perception score=5.3/10 (2.1) and the mean (SD) professional attitude score=7.5/10 (1.9). In multivariate regression, intention to report was associated with professional attitude (OR 1.08, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.14), ability to identify violence victims (OR 1.76, 95% CI 1.45 to 2.12) and negative perception that reporting is not mandated (OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.85 to 0.94). Significant differences existed among countries in intention to report. CONCLUSION Most dentists intended to report suspected violence and their intention could be explained by the theory of planned behaviour which offers a framework for professional development to support violence victims. Sharing of training resources, policies and guidelines is needed to ensure that practices similar to international guidelines are consistently adopted by dentists across Arab countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha El Tantawi
- Department of Preventive Dental Sciences, College of Dentistry, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Balgis Gaffar
- Department of Preventive Dental Sciences, College of Dentistry, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Arheiam Arheiam
- Department of Community and Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Benghazi, Benghazi, Libya
| | - Wafaa AbdelAziz
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Dental Public Health, Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ola B Al-Batayneh
- Department of Preventive Dentistry, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | | | | | - Mai A Dama
- Department of Paedodontics and Orthodontics, College of Dentistry, Arab American University of Jenin, Jenin, Palestine
| | - Mounir Zaghez
- Department of Oral Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Annaba University (BADJI Mokhtar), Annaba, Algeria
| | - Khalid Saddiq Hassan
- Department of Oral Medicine and Periodontology, Faculty of Dentistry, AlAzhar University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Mona Al-Sane
- Department of Developmental and Preventive Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Maha AbdelSalam
- Department of Biomedical Dental Sciences, College of Dentistry, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wael Sabbah
- Department of Population and Patient Health, King’s College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Arwa I Owais
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, College of Dentistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Fatma Abdelgawad
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Dental Public Health, Faculty of Oral and Dental Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Omar Abd El Sadek El Meligy
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Dental Public Health, Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jehan AlHumaid
- Department of Preventive Dental Sciences, College of Dentistry, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fahad Al-Harbi
- Department of Substitutive Dental Sciences, College of Dentistry, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
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Uldum B, Christensen HN, Welbury R, Haubek D. How Danish dentists and dental hygienists handle their role in child abuse and neglect matters. Acta Odontol Scand 2017; 75:332-337. [PMID: 28355932 DOI: 10.1080/00016357.2017.1307448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to identify how the dental team perceives its role in safeguarding children, to identify barriers to referral to social services, to compare data with data previously reported from Denmark, and to assess if increased focus on safeguarding children has had an effect on how the dental team handles its responsibility to refer to social services. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study is based on a Danish version of a questionnaire previously used in Scotland and Denmark. The questionnaire was sent to a random sample of the Danish dental team. RESULTS The number of returned questionnaires was 964 (67.0%) with valid data. Of these, 40.8% had had a suspicion of child abuse or neglect and 50.0% had referred their concern to social services. Frequently reported barriers to referral were uncertainty about observations, signs, and symptoms of abuse and neglect, and uncertainty about referral procedures. A total of 84 (8.9%) of the respondents had received both undergraduate and postgraduate training on the topic, and 64.4% of the respondents found that the dental staff could recognize signs and symptoms of abuse and neglect. CONCLUSION Findings suggest a continuous need for a focus on the awareness and training of the Danish dental staff on the important topic of child abuse and neglect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birgitte Uldum
- Municipal Dental Service for Children and Adolescents, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hanne N. Christensen
- Department of Pediatrics, Child Protection Centre, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Richard Welbury
- Department of Paediatric Dentistry, University of Central Lancashire Dental School, Preston, UK
| | - Dorte Haubek
- Section for Paediatric Dentistry, Department of Dentistry and Oral Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Rodrigues JL, Lima AP, Nagata JY, Rigo L, Cericato GO, Franco A, Paranhos LR. Domestic violence against children detected and managed in the routine of dentistry – A systematic review. J Forensic Leg Med 2016; 43:34-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2016.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2016] [Revised: 06/24/2016] [Accepted: 07/10/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Dental health care providers’ views on child physical abuse in Malaysia. Eur Arch Paediatr Dent 2016; 17:387-395. [DOI: 10.1007/s40368-016-0242-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2016] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Do you see what I see? Identification of child protection concerns by hospital staff and general dental practitioners. Br Dent J 2016; 220:451-7. [DOI: 10.1038/sj.bdj.2016.331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Abstract
Any concerns about paediatric patients in general dental practice can be stressful for all involved. Barriers to the reporting of concerns by dental teams are known to exist. Anything that can help ease those situations can only be beneficial. In this article we look at three scenarios that could arise which I am often asked about during teaching and training sessions on safeguarding and child protection for dental teams. They can be discussed at team meetings and training, so that if they are ever to happen for real, everyone will know exactly what to do. This article cannot be completely prescriptive as there will be local variations, but it gives general guidance on issues raised by the scenarios. If you already have a child protection policy in your practice, make sure you know what it says; and if you don't this article will point the way to further resources for developing one.
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Al-Amad SH, Awad MA, Al-Farsi LH, Elkhaled RH. Reporting child abuse cases by dentists working in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). J Forensic Leg Med 2016; 40:12-5. [PMID: 26950173 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2016.01.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2015] [Revised: 11/16/2015] [Accepted: 01/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Reporting of suspicious cases of child abuse is a sensitive issue that is often hindered by uncertainty of diagnosis. This cross sectional study aimed to assess the UAE dentists' experiences in child abuse recognition, the factors that prevent them from reporting suspicious cases to authorities and their perceived training needs. A closed-ended, self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 350 dentists working in the UAE. Chi Square test was used to determine association between training needs on child abuse and its reporting rate. Logistic regression was used to determine the association between perceived training needs and other covariates. One hundred and ninety three respondents satisfied the inclusion criteria. Forty seven (25%) dentists reported encountering a suspicious child abuse case at least once in their career, but only 15 (32%) of those reported their suspicion. Fear of making the wrong diagnosis was the most frequent challenge hindering reporting and dentists who demonstrated a need for specialized training were more likely to express this fear (OR = 5.88, 95% CI: 0.07, 0.45; P = 0.00). The majority of UAE dentists do not report their suspicion to authorities and specialized training should be offered to build dentists' capacity in diagnosing and appropriately reporting suspicious child abuse cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suhail H Al-Amad
- College of Dental Medicine, University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Manal A Awad
- College of Dental Medicine, University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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Al-Dabaan R, Asimakopoulou K, Newton JT. Effectiveness of a web-based child protection training programme designed for dental practitioners in Saudi Arabia: a pre- and post-test study. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF DENTAL EDUCATION : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR DENTAL EDUCATION IN EUROPE 2016; 20:45-54. [PMID: 25655568 DOI: 10.1111/eje.12141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/08/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
AIM Safeguarding children is an integral part of dental training and practice. The purpose of this research was to evaluate a web-based training program in child protection on dental practitioners' knowledge and practice in Saudi Arabia. In addition, participants' views of the course were also assessed. METHOD Pre-, immediately post-training, and one month post-training knowledge and self reported behaviour were assessed following completion of an online training course in child protection by 82 dental practitioners working in Saudi Arabia. RESULTS Eighty-two participants completed the whole training package and 62 completed the one month post-training survey. A significant increase in knowledge was found immediately after taking part in the child protection training program in comparison to baseline knowledge (P < 0.001). The course was highly rated by those who completed it. At one month following the training program, 21% have or intend to adopt a child protection policy in their practice, 29% identified a staff member to lead on child protection since completing the program, almost all participants have been aware of child abuse and neglect (CAN) signs in their daily practice and 27.4% have made a report of a suspected case of CAN in the last month since the training. CONCLUSION The web-based training program in child protection was appraised positively and was effective in increasing knowledge and changing attitudes towards safeguarding children.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Al-Dabaan
- Paediatric Dentistry Division, Department of Paediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, King Saud University College of Dentistry, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Unit of Social & Behavioural Sciences, King's College London Dental Institute, London, UK
| | - K Asimakopoulou
- Unit of Social & Behavioural Sciences, King's College London Dental Institute, London, UK
| | - J T Newton
- Unit of Social & Behavioural Sciences, King's College London Dental Institute, London, UK
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Cukovic-Bagic I, Dumancic J, Kujundzic Tiljak M, Drvaric I, Boric B, Kopic V, Krupic I, Bakarcic D, Budimir M, Welbury RR. Croatian dentists' knowledge, experience, and attitudes in regard to child abuse and neglect. Int J Paediatr Dent 2015; 25:444-50. [PMID: 25512027 DOI: 10.1111/ipd.12151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Child abuse and neglect (CAN) is a widespread social phenomenon encompassing all forms of maltreatment with serious lifelong consequences. Dentists and dental team members are in the unique position to identify the symptoms of CAN often visible in craniofacial region. AIM To evaluate Croatian dentists' level of knowledge, experience, and attitude towards CAN issue. DESIGN Investigation was conducted in five major Croatian cities (Zagreb, Varaždin, Osijek, Rijeka, and Split). A previously used questionnaire regarding knowledge and experience in child protection was adopted to Croatian terminology and distributed to 544 dentists. RESULTS A total of 510 dentists who returned a questionnaire with valid data 26.27% reported to have had suspicion of CAN during professional career and 5.1% reported their suspicion within the last 6 months, mostly to social services and police. Fear of violence towards the child and uncertainty about observations were the most frequently reported barriers towards referring and only 11.4% knew the procedure. About 80% of respondents want further training in identifying and reporting of physical abuse. CONCLUSIONS Study showed a lack of knowledge and uncertainty in recognizing and reporting CAN cases in Croatian dentists. They expressed the need for undergraduate and post-graduate continuing education on this issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Cukovic-Bagic
- Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Department of Dental Medicine, School of Dental Medicine, University of Zagreb, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Jelena Dumancic
- Department of Dental Anthropology, School of Dental Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Mirjana Kujundzic Tiljak
- Department of Medical Statistics, Epidemiology and Medical Informatics, School of Public Health "Andrija Štampar", School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | | | | | | | - Danko Bakarcic
- School of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | | | - Richard R Welbury
- Department of Paediatric Dentistry, University of Glasgow Dental School, Glasgow, UK
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20
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Kaur H, Chaudhary S, Choudhary N, Manuja N, Chaitra TR, Amit SA. Child abuse: Cross-sectional survey of general dentists. J Oral Biol Craniofac Res 2015; 6:118-23. [PMID: 27195209 DOI: 10.1016/j.jobcr.2015.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2015] [Accepted: 08/08/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Child abuse continues to be a social menace causing both physical and emotional trauma to benevolent children. Census has shown that nearly 50-75% of child abuse include trauma to mouth, face, and head. Thus, dental professionals are in strategic position to identify physical and emotional manifestations of abuse. AIM A cross-sectional survey was undertaken to assess knowledge and attitude of dental practitioners regarding child abuse and to identify the barriers in reporting the same. METHODS With prior consent, a 20-question survey including both multiple choice and dichotomous (Yes/No) questions was mailed to 120 state-registered general dentists, and the data collected were subjected to statistical analysis. RESULTS Overall response rate to the questionnaires was 97%. Lack of knowledge about dentist's role in reporting child abuse accounted to 55% in the reasons for hesitancy to report. Pearson chi-square test did not show any significant difference between male and female regarding reason for hesitancy to report and legal obligation of dentists. CONCLUSION Although respondent dentists were aware of the diagnosis of child abuse, they were hesitant and unaware of the appropriate authority to report. Increased instruction in the areas of recognition and reporting of child abuse and neglect should be emphasized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harsimran Kaur
- Reader, Department of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry Kothiwal Dental College and Research Centre Moradabad 244001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Seema Chaudhary
- Professor and Head, Department of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry Kothiwal Dental College and Research Centre Moradabad 244001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Nidhi Choudhary
- Post-Graduate Student, Department of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry Kothiwal Dental College and Research Centre Moradabad 244001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Naveen Manuja
- Professor, Department of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry Kothiwal Dental College and Research Centre Moradabad 244001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - T R Chaitra
- Reader, Department of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry Kothiwal Dental College and Research Centre Moradabad 244001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sinha Ashish Amit
- Reader, Department of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry Kothiwal Dental College and Research Centre Moradabad 244001, Uttar Pradesh, India
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21
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Tilvawala D, Murray C, Farah R, Broadbent JM. New Zealand dental therapists’ beliefs regarding child maltreatment. Aust N Z J Public Health 2014; 38:480-4. [DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.12238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2013] [Revised: 01/01/2014] [Accepted: 02/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Dhara Tilvawala
- Sir John Walsh Research Institute, Department of Oral Rehabilitation; University of Otago; New Zealand
| | - Colleen Murray
- Sir John Walsh Research Institute, Department of Oral Rehabilitation; University of Otago; New Zealand
| | - Rami Farah
- Sir John Walsh Research Institute, Department of Oral Rehabilitation; University of Otago; New Zealand
| | - Jonathan M. Broadbent
- Sir John Walsh Research Institute, Department of Oral Rehabilitation; University of Otago; New Zealand
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Al-Dabaan R, Newton J, Asimakopoulou K. Knowledge, attitudes, and experience of dentists living in Saudi Arabia toward child abuse and neglect. Saudi Dent J 2014; 26:79-87. [PMID: 25057227 PMCID: PMC4095046 DOI: 10.1016/j.sdentj.2014.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2013] [Revised: 12/16/2013] [Accepted: 03/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To analyze the experience and knowledge of dental practitioners in Saudi Arabia regarding the identification of child abuse and neglect (CAN), to identify barriers that prevent the reporting of suspected cases of child maltreatment by dental practitioners, and to assess the need for training dentists in child protection. METHODS A self-administered, web-based questionnaire was emailed to all of the members of the Saudi Dental Society (n = 7352) in 2012. RESULTS The respondents (n = 122) demonstrated good knowledge of the forms and indicators of CAN. Moreover, a large proportion (59%) had experienced a case of child abuse or neglect in their practice over the previous five years. However, only about 10% of these respondents made a report. Fear of family reprisal, lack of certainty about the diagnosis of child maltreatment, and uncertainty about case management were critical barriers to the reporting of the suspected child maltreatment. In addition, only 20.9% of the respondents reported having knowledge of a child protection policy in their workplace. CONCLUSIONS Based on the results of this survey, it appears that the level of knowledge among the respondents regarding the forms and indicators of CAN is good. However, a large proportion of respondents did not take action regarding suspected cases of CAN in their practice over the past five years. Therefore, additional resources and training are needed to support the identification and management of cases of child maltreatment by dental practitioners.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Al-Dabaan
- Paediatric Dentistry Division, Department of Paediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, King Saud University College of Dentistry, Saudi Arabia
- Unit of Social & Behavioural Sciences, Dental Institute, King’s College London, United Kingdom
| | - J.T. Newton
- Unit of Social & Behavioural Sciences, Dental Institute, King’s College London, United Kingdom
| | - K. Asimakopoulou
- Unit of Social & Behavioural Sciences, Dental Institute, King’s College London, United Kingdom
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23
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Bhatia SK, Maguire SA, Chadwick BL, Hunter ML, Harris JC, Tempest V, Mann MK, Kemp AM. Characteristics of child dental neglect: a systematic review. J Dent 2013; 42:229-39. [PMID: 24140926 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdent.2013.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2013] [Revised: 10/07/2013] [Accepted: 10/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Neglect of a child's oral health can lead to pain, poor growth and impaired quality of life. In populations where there is a high prevalence of dental caries, the determination of which children are experiencing dental neglect is challenging. This systematic review aims to identify the features of oral neglect in children. METHODS Fifteen databases spanning 1947-2012 were searched; these were supplemented by hand searching of 4 specialist journals, 5 websites and references of full texts. Included: studies of children 0-18 years with confirmed oral neglect undergoing a standardised dental examination; excluded: physical/sexual abuse. All relevant studies underwent two independent reviews (+/- 3rd review) using standardised critical appraisal. RESULTS Of 3863 potential studies screened, 83 studies were reviewed and 9 included (representing 1595 children). Features included: failure or delay in seeking dental treatment; failure to comply with/complete treatment; failure to provide basic oral care; co-existent adverse impact on the child e.g. pain and swelling. Two studies developed and implemented 'dental neglect' screening tools with success. The importance of Quality of Life tools to identify impact of neglected dental care are also highlighted. CONCLUSIONS A small body of literature addresses this topic, using varying definitions of neglect, and standards of oral examination. While failure/delay in seeking care with adverse dental consequences were highlighted, differentiating dental caries from dental neglect is difficult, and there is a paucity of data on precise clinical features to aid in this distinction. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Diagnosing dental neglect can be challenging, influencing a reluctance to report cases. Published evidence does exist to support these referrals when conditions as above are described, although further quality case control studies defining distinguishing patterns of dental caries would be welcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannu K Bhatia
- University Dental Hospital, School of Dentistry, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK.
| | - Sabine A Maguire
- College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Barbara L Chadwick
- College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, School of Dentistry, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - M Lindsay Hunter
- College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, School of Dentistry, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Vanessa Tempest
- College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Mala K Mann
- Support Unit for Research Evidence, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Alison M Kemp
- College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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Hashim R, Al-Ani A. Child physical abuse: assessment of dental students' attitudes and knowledge in United Arab Emirates. Eur Arch Paediatr Dent 2013; 14:301-5. [PMID: 23824733 DOI: 10.1007/s40368-013-0063-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2012] [Accepted: 02/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
AIM To investigate dental students' educational experience, attitudes and knowledge with regard to child physical abuse in all dental schools in United Arab Emirates. METHODS The data were collected by self-administered structured questionnaire completed by 578 under graduate dental students in four (all) dental schools in United Arab Emirates. Data were analysed using descriptive analyses for responses to each question. RESULTS The results indicated that there was lack of knowledge of reporting procedure, signs of physical abuse and social indicators among all respondents. Over 80 % of the students agreed that dentists should be legally mandated to report abuse cases and a high percentage (94.3 %) of the participants believed they had an ethical duty to report child abuse. Most students indicated that their dental school was the main source of information on this topic. The majority of the respondents expressed a need for further training. CONCLUSIONS Dental students were not sufficiently prepared to know what to look for when they suspect child abuse and what to actually do when they encounter this problem in a professional setting. To provide better care for these young domestic violence victims, dental schools' curriculum modifications should focus on providing students with concrete educational experiences regarding child abuse cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Hashim
- Ajman University of Science and Technology, Emirate of Ajman, Ajman, UAE,
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25
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The Scottish dental practitioner's role in managing child abuse and neglect. Br Dent J 2013; 214:E24. [DOI: 10.1038/sj.bdj.2013.435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Marengo G, Paola APBD, Ferreira FM, Pizzatto E, Correr GM, Losso EM. Child abuse: validation of a questionnaire translated into Brazilian Portuguese. Braz Oral Res 2013; 27:163-8. [DOI: 10.1590/s1806-83242013000100022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2012] [Accepted: 12/21/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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27
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Laud A, Gizani S, Maragkou S, Welbury R, Papagiannoulis L. Child protection training, experience, and personal views of dentists in the prefecture of Attica, Greece. Int J Paediatr Dent 2013; 23:64-71. [PMID: 22429739 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-263x.2012.01225.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The abuse and neglect of children constitutes a social phenomenon that unfortunately is widespread irrespective of geographic, ethnic, or social background. Dentists may be the first health professionals to recognize signs of child maltreatment (CM) and have an important role in dealing with such incidents. AIM To describe the training, experience, and personal views of dentists practicing in the Prefecture of Attica regarding the recognition and referral of abused and neglected children. DESIGN A random sample was drawn from a target population of dentists registered with two of the largest dental associations in Greece. The dental practitioners were interviewed by two paediatric dentists using a specially designed questionnaire. Information was collected regarding their awareness on child maltreatment, the frequency of suspected incidents as well as the reasons for not reporting them. RESULTS With a response rate of 83%, findings are reported from 368 interviews (54% male, mean age 43 years). Only 21% of respondents had received training on child protection at undergraduate level. Suspected abuse was 13% and suspected neglect was 35%. Only six of the 368 respondents made an official report of a suspected case of child maltreatment. The most common reason that might prevent a dentist from reporting a case was doubt over the diagnosis (44%). Ninety-seven per cent of dentists believed that recognition and referral of incidents should be part of undergraduate training. CONCLUSIONS Dental practitioners did not feel adequately informed on recognizing and referring child abuse and neglect cases. The low percentage of reported incidents and the lack of legislation indicate a great need for continuously educating dentists on child maltreatment as well as for setting up an organized system in Greece for reporting such incidents to protect the dentist referring the case as well as the child being victimized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Laud
- Department of Paediatric Dentistry, Dental School, University of Athens, Greece.
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28
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Jordan A, Welbury RR, Tiljak MK, Cukovic-Bagic I. Croatian Dental Students’ Educational Experiences and Knowledge in Regard to Child Abuse and Neglect. J Dent Educ 2012. [DOI: 10.1002/j.0022-0337.2012.76.11.tb05413.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ante Jordan
- School of Dental Medicine, University of Zagreb; Croatia
| | - Richard R. Welbury
- Department of Paediatric Dentistry; University of Glasgow Dental School; Glasgow
| | - Mirjana Kujundzic Tiljak
- Department of Medical Statistics; Epidemiology, and Medical Informatics, School of Public Health Andrija ŠtamparSchool of Medicine, University of Zagreb; Croatia
| | - Ivana Cukovic-Bagic
- Department of Paediatric and Preventive Dentistry; School of Dental Medicine, University of ZagrebUniversity Hospital Centre Zagreb; Department of Dental Medicine; Croatia
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Azevedo MS, Goettems ML, Brito A, Possebon AP, Domingues J, Demarco FF, Torriani DD. Child maltreatment: a survey of dentists in southern Brazil. Braz Oral Res 2012; 26:5-11. [PMID: 22344331 DOI: 10.1590/s1806-83242012000100002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2011] [Accepted: 11/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Child abuse is a serious public health problem and affects the victims' physical and mental health and development. The aims of this study were two-fold: to assess the attitudes and perceptions of dentists regarding child abuse, and to investigate professional characteristics associated with the identification of suspected child abuse. A questionnaire was sent to the 276 dentists of Pelotas, RS, Brazil, and 187 (68.0%) were returned. Demographic characteristics and profiles of the dentists, and information about their knowledge and attitudes regarding child abuse were collected. Descriptive analysis was performed, and associations were tested by chi-square and Fisher's exact tests. From all dentists surveyed, 123 (71.9%) reported providing treatment for children. Most dentists believed they could detect cases of child abuse (78.7%), but 85.7% had never suspected it. Among those who did suspect, 76.0% did not report the cases to authorities. No differences were observed between sexes, years of graduation, types of licenses, and the frequency at which children were treated. A higher proportion of dentists working at university had suspected child abuse. Even though dentists considered themselves able to identify suspicious cases, only a small percentage reported those suspicions, indicating a lack of awareness by these professionals in the adoption of protective measures for victims of aggression. It is necessary that dental professionals receive interdisciplinary training to enhance their ability to care for and protect children.
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Sonbol HN, Abu-Ghazaleh S, Rajab LD, Baqain ZH, Saman R, Al-Bitar ZB. Knowledge, educational experiences and attitudes towards child abuse amongst Jordanian dentists. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF DENTAL EDUCATION : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR DENTAL EDUCATION IN EUROPE 2012; 16:e158-e165. [PMID: 22251340 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0579.2011.00691.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Signs of physical abuse often present in the oro-facial region and dentists are in a strategic position to recognise and report suspected cases. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, educational experiences and attitudes of Jordanian dentists towards child abuse and to assess their educational needs. METHODS A cross-sectional survey of a random sample of Jordanian dentists (n=400) was conducted using an anonymous, self-administered structured questionnaire. RESULTS The response rate was 64%. Thirty-four per cent (n=88) of the respondents reported having formal training in recognising and reporting child abuse, and 42% (n=106) had post-qualification/continuing education training on the topic. Half of the dentists (127/256) suspected a case of child abuse in the past 5 years, but only 12% (31/256) reported their suspicions. The main reasons for not reporting suspicions of abuse were fear from anger of parents (43%), uncertainty about diagnosis (41%) and uncertainty about referral procedures (41%). Those dentists who had formal training in dental school (P=0.0001) and post-qualification courses in child abuse (P=0.006) were significantly more likely to report suspicions. CONCLUSIONS A significant gap existed between recognising signs of physical child abuse and responding effectively. Improvements in child abuse education and continuing education courses are advised to provide dentists in Jordan with adequate knowledge of indicators of physical child abuse and to inform them on the protocol to follow when suspicions arise.
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Affiliation(s)
- H N Sonbol
- Departments of Orthodontics & Paediatric Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordanan.
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Al-Jundi SH, Zawaideh FI, Al-Rawi MH. Jordanian Dental Students’ Knowledge and Attitudes in Regard to Child Physical Abuse. J Dent Educ 2010. [DOI: 10.1002/j.0022-0337.2010.74.10.tb04972.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Suhad H.S. Al-Jundi
- Department of Preventive Dentistry; Jordan University of Science and Technology
| | - Feda I. Zawaideh
- Department of Preventive Dentistry; Jordan University of Science and Technology
| | - Moammar H. Al-Rawi
- Department of Preventive Dentistry; Jordan University of Science and Technology
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Uldum B, Christensen HN, Welbury R, Poulsen S. Danish dentists' and dental hygienists' knowledge of and experience with suspicion of child abuse or neglect. Int J Paediatr Dent 2010; 20:361-5. [PMID: 20642464 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-263x.2010.01070.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies from several countries have shown that knowledge of child protection matters among the dental team is inadequate. No such data are available from Denmark. AIM To describe dental teams perception of their role in child protection matters. DESIGN A previously used questionnaire regarding the role of the dental team in child protection was adopted to Danish terminology, and mailed to a sample of Danish dentists and dental hygienists. RESULTS A total of 1145 (76.3%) returned a questionnaire with valid data; 38.3% reported to have had suspicion of child abuse or neglect. Of those who reported a suspicion, 33.9% had reported their suspicion to social services. This was more frequent for dentists than for dental hygienists, and more frequent for respondents working in the municipal dental service than in private practice. Most frequently reported barriers towards referring suspicion to social services were uncertainty about observations, fear of violence in the family towards the child, and lack of knowledge regarding referral procedures. The majority of the respondents expressed a need for further education. CONCLUSIONS Members of the dental team in Denmark do not seem to fill their role sufficiently in child protection matters, and perceive a need for undergraduate and continuing postgraduate training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birgitte Uldum
- Municipal Dental Service of Children and Adolescents, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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