Exercise 4: Step 2

Fact ... or professional judgement?

Given that an important distinction to make in the record is whether what you are writing is a 'fact' or a 'professional judgement', have a look at the following 10 statements, each taken from child protection conferences, and decide which is a 'fact' and which is an 'professional judgement' (modified from Lewis, Shemmings and Thoburn, 1992).

1. There are inadequate play and stimulation opportunities available.

2. The bruise and swelling are consistent with hitting his head on the door.

3. This is the first incident of abuse to the child.

4. The flat is unsuitable for bringing up a young child.

5. Mrs Green is good at keeping her flat tidy.

6. Experienced professionals are better at dealing with child protection issues.

7. Children who were abused usually become abusers.

8. The child said his dad hit him.

9. I saw Peter playing with his toys when I last visited.

10. Mrs Green does not display appropriate parenting skills when relating to her son.

Now compare your answers with ours

By Steve Walker, David Shemmings and Hedy Cleaver
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