The Journal abuse and neglect are primarily associated with the stresses of poverty and rarely occur among middle or high income groups , a statement which is completely false . These results are similar to that of the study from Gujarat11 but higher than that of the results from the studies in Jordan , UK , US , and Australia4 . This answer marked by most of the respondents might be due to their lack of experience in detecting a case of child abuse . A Few respondents ( 7.2 %) were aware that current epidemiological reports of child abuse indicate that it is not more prevalent in particular socio-economic groups and that the scope of the problem knows no social , educational or financial boundaries .
Conclusion
This study of the knowledge and attitudes of dentists in Punjab about child abuse has demonstrated a poor overall understanding of the problem , despite a very high level of interest demonstrated by the respondents . In view of the high likelihood of oro dental injuries occurring in association with child abuse , and no reporting of cases by the dental professionals , this study has demonstrated a clear need for dentists to receive further formal training at the levels of undergraduate , postgraduate and continuing professional dental education in the recognition and reporting of child abuse . The dental professionals must become actively involved in the recognition of all types of child abuse . Although not currently mandated in all states of India to report the problem , all dentists should address their professional obligation to do so when confronted with a suspected case of child abuse , and should become fully aware of the appropriate reporting procedures in their location .
References
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