Role of general practitioner for psychosocial intervention in maltreated child

Abstract

Child maltreatment is a main social and public health concern. It is accounted for a child psychiatricemergency. General practitioner working in an emergency department plays a key role in early detection andinitial psychosocial management for this problem besides of treating a childûs physical condition. In terms ofearly detection, evidence of child maltreatment could be based on history taking, child and parent assessment.Psychosocial intervention includes initial management of child psychiatric problems, urgent referral tomultidisciplinary team and giving psychological support to the affected child. Positive attitude and competentcommunication skills are required for the general practitioner to work with the child and family effectively.Therefore, proper management in the emergency room is a holistic part of the child protective process.

Key words: Psychosocial intervention, Child maltreatment