Development of Scientific and Objective Methods to Detect Physical Child Abuse

Through the Edward Byrne Memorial Congressionally Recommended Awards program, the Office of Justice Programs helps communities improve the capacity of local justice systems and supports training and technical assistance programs and other efforts that strategically target local needs. This program is authorized to organizations identified in the Text and Joint Explanatory Statement, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009.

During the three year project period, the University of Louisville Research Foundation will develop scientific, objective and reliable methods for detecting physical child abuse. Project tasks will include 1) development of a pediatric falls computer simulation model, 2) development of a Classic Metaphyseal Lesion Biomechanical Model, and 3) evaluation and use of a Surrogate Bruising Detection System in Simulated Falls. The long-term goal of this project is to increase objectivity and accuracy in the detection of child abuse in clinical and judicial settings.

NCA/NCF