Risk Management Training - Module 1

Introduction

• Welcome by Chandler Metf, Operations Coordinator for Cassm.
• Focus on risk management training, specifically for child abuse and neglect.
• Important topics: Signs of child abuse/neglect, mandated reporting policies, camper safety techniques.
• Acknowledgement of sensitive content related to abuse, neglect, suicidal ideation, and self-harm.

Types of Abuse

1. Physical Abuse
   • Results in bodily injury.
2. Sexual Abuse
   • Involves inappropriate sexual behaviors.
3. Emotional Abuse
   • Chronic acts that endanger a child's mental health or emotional development.
4. Neglect
   • Failure to provide basic needs: food, shelter, medical attention, supervision.

Statistics

• 78% Neglect, 18% Physical abuse, 9% Sexual abuse, 8% Emotional abuse.
• CDC estimates 1 in 7 children experience abuse or neglect annually in the U.S.
• Many cases go unreported.

Indicators of Abuse

Neglect

• Physical Indicators: Hunger, poor hygiene, lack of supervision, fatigue, medical needs.
• Behavioral Indicators: Food hoarding, extended school stays, delinquency.

Physical Abuse

• Physical Indicators: Unexplained bruises, burns, fractures.
• Behavioral Indicators: Fear of adults, fear of going home.

Sexual Abuse

• Physical Indicators: Difficulty sitting, genital pain, venereal diseases.
• Behavioral Indicators: Sexual knowledge, poor peer relationships.

Emotional Abuse

• Physical Indicators: Habit disorders, conduct disorders.
• Behavioral Indicators: Behavioral extremes, developmental lags.

Reporting Protocols

• Mandated by law to report known/suspected abuse during Cassm programs.
• Two Levels of Reporting:
  1. Counselor to Camp Adviser.
  2. Camp Adviser to National Hotline (CKN).
• Steps for Disclosure: Listen, Reassure, Record.
• Confidentiality: Crucial to maintain; only share with Camp Adviser and mental health professional.

Handling Suicidality, Self-harm, and Eating Disorders

Suicidal Ideation

• Recognize changes in behavior or personality.
• Protocol: Take seriously, escalate to Camp Adviser or MHP, never leave camper alone.
• Response: Stay calm, explain confidentiality, transition to MHP.

Self-harm

• Recognize physical signs like consistent scrapes or mood swings.
• Protocol: Ensure safety, escalate to MHP and CA.

Disordered Eating

• Look for irregular eating behaviors.
• Protocol: Ensure campers eat enough, escalate concerns to CA and MHP.

Conclusion

• Importance of recognizing and reporting extreme behavior to ensure camper safety.
• Role of counselors: Supportive presence, not therapists.
• Always prioritize camper safety and report any concerns.

• Next Steps: Continue to Risk Management Module 2.