Lab 6

Child Abuse

Running Head:

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Child Abuse and Neglect Cases

Lab #6 Child Abuse and Neglect Cases Reported and Investigated by State Nikia Pope SOWK 300 Tuskegee University February 10, 2009

Child Abuse

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Magnitude of the Problem Figure 1

Descriptive Discussion This data clearly states the number of Child Abuse and Neglect Cases by State. Given this data, one can see that Child Abuse is a major problem within the United States. In these 5 states alone, the numbers are alarming. This chart describes Child Abuse in (5) states in respect to the population, number of reports, number of children subject of an investigation, and the number of child victims. Interpretive Discussion From this data I gathered that Child Abuse and Neglect is an evergrowing problem in society that needs to be addressed. There should be some type of laws and consequences implemented in society, so that we can try to combat this problem. The sooner that society and high ranking officials recognize that this is a problem, the sooner something can be done about this. The children lives can be affected in a positive way versus a negative one.

Child Abuse

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Scope of the problem Figure 2

Descriptive Discussion The above graph shows the number of Child Abuse victims broken down by age groups and by specific years. Each year is color coded by year. Looking at this data, one can draw the conclusion that the trend continues to progress upward. Each age group seems to be more than the previous one.

Interpretive Discussion Every year Child Abuse seems to become more of an issue. Each year is more than the previous year, which indicates that the problem is becoming more severe that the previous year. The most severe age category seems to be the 2 to 5 year old category. The 18 years old & older category seems to be almost nonexistent, or at least not as severe as the other age categories.

Child Abuse

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Change in the problem Figure 3

Descriptive Discussion This data displays the total number of victims of Child Abuse, and it also broken down into 2 Categories; Male and Female. This data shows a steady increase in the number of cases reported.

Interpretive Discussion There are recognizable changes within this problem unfortunately; all the changes are for the worse. The chart clearly shows in a steady, dangerous increase in the number of children being abused. Each year is more crucial than the year before. Using this data, on can make an assumption that the abuse is more inflicted towards young girls. This graph means that Child Abuse is a problem that we must get under control.

Child Abuse

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Disparities in the Problem Figure 4

Descriptive Discussion The data chart shows the Disparities within the problem of Child Abuse and Neglect. The problem is broken down into age groups as well as by Sex (Male and Female. Each age group numbers are pretty close to each others, which goes to show that its serious no matter what age group. It is also a major problem with Males and Females, data is similar. Interpretive Discussion Ages 1 -17, Kids are steadily being abused. This abuse is affecting them in more ways than we can know. These are suppose to be the formidable years of kids and someone is stunting their growth with the abuse. Age 2 to 9 are hit the hardest. Its time someone spoke up.

Summary & Conclusion

Child Abuse

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Child Abuse is a major problem in society. Some may be more aware of the problem than others. This data should be known worldwide, so that people can begin to stand up and fight for these innocent children. Help save a life! Children with a history of neglect or physical abuse are at risk of developing psychiatric problems. Victims of childhood abuse also suffer from different types of physical health problems later on in life. Many reportedly suffer from some type of chronic head, abdominal, pelvic, or muscular pain with no identifiable reason.