The materials covered provided an all-inclusive overview of relational abuse, with particular emphasis on elder and child abuse. The author highlights important factors that therapists should take into consideration to help victims cope with the issue. Some of the factors discussed include types of child abuse dynamics of child abuse, among others.
According to Venezia (2024), abuse of minors is not restricted to physical or sexual abuse; it consists of other things, such as negligence and emotional abuse. The prevalence of abuse of minors in the United States has been underscored using data from research findings. What is most upsetting is that one out of every seven children has experienced abuse in the past year. In 2019, it was estimated that a total of 1,840 minors died in the US due to negligence and abuse by guardians/parents (Venezia, 2024). Data from previous findings suggest that child abuse is highly prevalent among children from financially challenged households. What is disturbing is that minors from homesteads experiencing financial hardships are five times more likely to be exposed to sexual abuse than their counterparts from affluent households. By exposing various tactics used by the perpetrators to gain the victims’ trust in order to gain access to their lives, the author has created public awareness of those who constitute would-be predators. Knowledge of how perpetrators lure their victims is beneficial in preventing child abuse from taking place. Child abuse, if left unaddressed, can result not only in physical abuse but also in long-term mental health problems such as disrupted brain development.
The power and control wheel, specifically depicting abuse of children, provided a stark visual representation of the dynamics at play. The part on cultural considerations was insightful. For instance, the idea that robust family or community networks can decrease abuse risks resonated with me. Moreover, recognizing that rituals, beliefs, and cultural strengths can be incredible protective factors for youth was mind-opening. Additionally, a clear understanding of a client’s cultural context is crucial in understanding mitigation measures.
The parenting tips that place emphasis on positive discipline, structure, and proper communication with children in age-appropriate ways make so much sense for creating an environment that is conducive to the proper growth of children. The Texas cycle of escalating physical discipline clearly demonstrates how physical abuse can become a tragically destructive cycle. Overall, the wealth of practical information on reporting suspected child abuse felt empowering, as mandated reporters play a pivotal role in containing abuse.
The discussion about elder and dependent person abuse made me appreciate the various types that exist in this regard, which include financial abuse, neglect, emotional/psychological, negligence, physical abuse, and sexual abuse. It is important to view clients through a socio-bio-psycho-spiritual lens to understand their needs and context because adult abuse stems from a variety of risk factors at societal, relationship, and individual levels. The specific reporting process and hotline for adult protective services in California was incredible.
While the content on trauma responses and their impacts felt heavy at times, it is clearly essential knowledge for therapists. The physiological mechanics of trauma illustrated through models like the window of tolerance, polyvagal theory, and autonomic nervous system responses demystified what can seem like baffling or extreme reactions. Practicing resourcing skills and learning how to work somatically to discharge and process trauma in the body was insightful.
Overall, this piece reinforced how central trauma-informed principles like safety, choice, transparency, and focusing on strengths must be in order for effective therapy with abuse survivors. Finally, the powerful overview of vicarious trauma sheds light on a critical issue that can deeply impact therapists doing this meaningful work. Having strategies to monitor, prevent, and address vicarious traumatization feels like a necessity. This class covered such vital content. While the realities of abuse can be challenging to explore, feeling more informed and equipped to recognize and respond appropriately to these issues is invaluable. Having a greater understanding combined with key practical tools will undoubtedly enhance my abilities as a therapist to support clients impacted by relational abuse or trauma.
Reference
Venezia, R. (2024, March 30). Relational abuse. [Powerpoint Slides] LMFT 89898
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