In order to answer your question perhaps we should first define what abuse is,
Abuse is about a person inappropriately using their power over another individual
Abuse is treating someone with disrespect in a way which significantly affects the
individual's quality of life.
Abuse is the control by a person of an individual using fear, violence, or intimidation.
Abuse is the mistreatment by any person that violates an individual's human and civil rights.
Abuse is a single or repeated act or lack of appropriate action occurring in any relationship
where there is an expectation of trust which causes harm or distress to a vulnerable
individual.
It should also be said that there are various and very different types of abuse,
Physical – Hitting, slapping, pushing or kicking, forcing people to eat or take medication,
leaving people to sit in urine or faeces.
Sexual – Unwanted advances, indecent exposure or harassment, rough washing or touching
of the genital area, rape, being forced to watch or participate in sexual acts.
Emotional / psychological – Intimidation, not being included, being ignored, threats,
bullying, humiliating and blaming. These include discrimination that relates to age, race,
gender, sexuality, culture, religion etc.
Financial – Using an individual’s money without their permission or on items they
have not requested, not giving correct change, taking store card points, taking the
free item of “buy one get one free”. Not giving individuals enough money for food
and essential items.
Regarding what makes a person more vulnerable to abuse, some of the following factors might be considered
Individuals with a sensory impairment, for example, poor or no hearing or sight that
might lead to communication difficulties
Individuals may lack the capacity to understand what is happening or that it is
wrong. Lack of capacity could be for a number of different reasons and could be long
term or short term.
Individuals may be severely disabled.
Individuals may be physically or emotionally weak and rely on others for care.
Individuals may have suffered brain injury and may not be able to communicate
Individuals may be unconscious.
Individuals who do not have good support networks around them.
Individuals being cared for at home who are reliant on another person for care and
support.
http://www.cis-assessment.co.uk
Answered by
Julie
at
Apr 13, 2012 11:43 AM
