Providing school guidance counseling to children involved w/child abuse/neglect - Research Paper Example

The rates are probably much higher than these estimated numbers. Hence it is legal, ethical, moral and life-or-death decision to report and handle child abuse and neglect (Lambie, 2005). While in the first place it is difficult to identify abused children, it is more difficult to handle the management of these children. Abuse and neglect of children, being a pervasive problem, brings pangs of anxiety to a school counselor who sits in the driver seat of the car of management of child abuse. According to Wilson, Ireton, & Wood (1997; qtd.

in Lambie, 2005) educators fear to deal with child abuse and neglect cases because of procedural uncertainty and apprehension, complex ethical dilemmas and also legal and constitutional concerns. Abuse and neglect in childhood can lead to many short term and long term consequences. The short-term effects include physical injuries and feelings of shamefulness, hopelessness and helplessness. The long-term consequences include developmental delay, brain damage, inter-personal relationships, social difficulties, learning disorders, depression, poor academic performance, aggressive and violent behaviour, teenage pregnancy, substance abuse, criminal behaviour and sexual revictimistion (Prevent Child Abuse America, 2003 and Sechrist, 2000; qtd.

in Lambie, 2005). Hence school counselors have a moral, legal and ethical obligation to identify, report and provide proper intervention to students who are victims of abuse and neglect. This article explores the role of school counselor in the identification, reporting and management of children subjected to abuse and neglect. The article also briefs about the pragmatic guidelines and information which are present to assist professional school counselors about ethical and legal decision-making while working with abuse victims.

The definition of child abuse and