Describe signs & symptoms associated with different types of abuse

2.1 Describe signs and symptoms associated with the different types of abuse

Course: NVQ Level 4 Diploma In Health And Social Care (RQF)

Unit 12: Understand safeguarding and protection in health and social care settings

LO2: Understand how to respond to suspected or alleged abuse

Noticing the signs and symptoms of abuse is important to protect people in health and social care settings. Abuse can appear in different ways, each with its own signs. Here is a summary of the various types of abuse and their signs and symptoms:

1. Physical Abuse

Definition:

Physical abuse consists of the intentional act of causing physical pain or injuring a person.

Signs and Symptoms:

1. Unexplained bruises, burns, or fractures

2. Bite wounds or welts

3. Fearful behaviour in the presence of certain individuals

4. Wearing long sleeves in warm weather to hide injuries.

5. Not wanting to take part in physical activities.

2. Emotional or Psychological Abuse

Definition:

Emotional abuse is the act of inflicting emotional distress through the use of derogatory words, issuing threats, or otherwise manipulating the person.

Signs and Symptoms:

1. Feeling low about oneself or feeling worthless

2. Withdrawal from social interaction

3. Anxiety, depression, or a change in mood

4. Fearfulness or excessive compliance

5. Abrupt behavioural or personality changes

3. Sexual Abuse

Definition:

This is any non-consensual sex act or activity that is perpetrated on any individual.

Signs and Symptoms:

1. Unaccounted sexually transmitted diseases (STIs)

2. Bruises or bleeding around the genital areas or anus.

3. Trouble sitting or standing

4. Fear or evasion of specific people or places.

5. Age-inappropriate sexual knowledge or behaviours

4. Financial or Material Abuse

Definition:

Financial abuse is when someone uses another person's money or belongings in a wrong or unlawful way.

Signs and Symptoms:

1. Unexpected changes in finances without any visible reason.

2. Unexplained withdrawals from bank accounts

3. Lost personal items or valuable things

4. Unpaid bills despite sufficient funds

5. Not wanting to discuss money matters

5. Neglect and Acts of Omission

Definition:

'Neglect' means not giving someone the care, help, or attention they need, which can cause them harm or make them upset.

Signs and Symptoms:

1. Malnourishment or dehydration

2. Unattended medical needs

3. Not being clean.

4. Unsafe or unhygienic conditions of living conditions

5. Avoidance of social interactions

6. Domestic Violence or Abuse

Definition:

Domestic abuse is the act of applying controlling, forceful, or threatening behaviour in intimate relationships.

Signs and Symptoms:

1. Missing work or social events often

2. Injuries with variable reporting

3. Fear or anxiety about a partner

4. Being away from friends and family.

5. Low self-esteem or depression

7. Institutional Abuse

Definition:

Institutional abuse happens in the care environments where people are abused as a result of inadequate care practices or institutionalised culture.

Signs and Symptoms:

1. Too little personal attention.

2. Strict routines that ignore personal choices

3. Poor staffing or training

• Unexplained accidents or injuries

• Complaints of poor treatment from residents

Conclusion

It is important to recognise the signs and symptoms of abuse to help people quickly and keep them safe in care settings. Care workers need to be alert and tell the right authorities about any worries to make sure those they care for are safe and well.

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