Youth Protection Training

At Youthlinc, the safety and well-being of the youth we serve are our highest priorities. To ensure all adult volunteers are equipped to create a secure, respectful, and nurturing environment, Youthlinc Youth Protection Training is mandatory for all volunteers within our organization.

This comprehensive training program focuses on:

Recognizing and Preventing Abuse: Learn how to identify potential risks, recognize signs of abuse or misconduct, and take proactive steps to prevent harm.
Establishing Boundaries: Understand appropriate interactions with youth to maintain professionalism and safeguard their trust.
Reporting Concerns: Gain the tools and knowledge to effectively report any safety concerns or violations in accordance with organizational and legal guidelines.

By completing this training, volunteers commit to upholding Youthlinc's values of respect, integrity, and care while fostering a safe and positive environment for youth engagement.

Together, we can ensure every Youthlinc experience is enriching, empowering, and safe.

Objectives

Recognizing and Preventing Abuse

Recognize, respond, and report the different kinds of abuse likely to be experienced by youth.

Establishing Boundaries and Barriers

know and utilize Youthlinc's barriers to abuse to protect youth.

Reporting

Know and understand how and when to report abuse.

Certification

Upon completing this training you will receive a certification that is valid for 2 years. If you already have an active qualifying certification for Youth Protection please send a copy to Jordan@youthlinc.org.

Disclaimer

This training covers various forms of child abuse and maltreatment.
In the event that you have personally experienced abuse or know of someone who has, it is important to realize that this training module may trigger memories and reactions.
If needed, please take a break, speak to an understanding loved one, or reach out to a clinician

Importance
of
Youth Protection

At Youthlinc, the safety and well-being of the youth we serve are at the core of everything we do. Whether we are mentoring, educating, or empowering young people, our responsibility to create a safe, nurturing environment is paramount. Youth protection training is an essential component of this commitment, equipping our staff, volunteers, and leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to recognize, respond to, and prevent abuse, bullying, and other threats to youth safety.

Our programs engage youth in diverse settings—whether in the classroom, online, or during community service projects—and with this privilege comes a profound duty to ensure every interaction prioritizes their physical, emotional, and psychological safety. This training empowers us to establish protective boundaries, identify warning signs of abuse, and respond effectively in ways that foster trust and healing.

Through youth protection training, we strengthen our ability to be vigilant advocates for the children and teens entrusted to our care, ensuring they can grow, thrive, and participate in our programs without fear. This is not just about compliance with policies—it’s about building a culture of safety, accountability, and care that protects young people and reinforces the trust placed in us by their families and communities.

Understanding Abuse

Recognizing types of abuse: Key signs and behaviors to look for.

Types of Abuse

Physical Abuse
Sexual Abuse
Emotional or Psychological abuse
Neglect
Bullying

Emotional and Psychological Abuse

Emotional or psychological abuse refers to behaviors or actions by a caregiver, parent, or trusted adult that harm a child's mental and emotional well-being. Unlike physical abuse, it does not involve visible injuries but can be just as damaging, affecting a child's self-esteem, development, and ability to form healthy relationships.

Forms of Emotional or Psychological Abuse

Verbal Abuse:
- Constantly yelling, belittling, or using harsh words to demean or humiliate a child.
- Name-calling, ridicule, or making the child feel worthless or unloved.
Rejection or Neglect:
- Ignoring the child’s emotional needs or withholding affection and love.
- Dismissing the child’s feelings, needs, or achievements.
Threatening or Intimidation:
- Using fear to control a child (e.g., threatening to harm them or someone they care about).
- Exposing the child to unsafe or scary situations intentionally.
Isolation:
- Preventing the child from forming friendships or participating in normal social activities.
- Excessively restricting their freedom or communication with others.
Manipulation or Exploitation:
- Making the child feel guilty, responsible for adult problems, or forcing them to take on inappropriate responsibilities.
- Gaslighting or making the child doubt their perceptions of reality.
Exposing the Child to Abuse or Violence:
- Allowing the child to witness domestic violence or substance abuse.
- Using the child as a tool in conflicts or arguments.

Signs of Emotional or Psychological Abuse

Behavioral Signs:

Low self-esteem, lack of confidence, or feelings of worthlessness.
Excessive fearfulness, anxiety, or clinginess.
Sudden changes in behavior, such as becoming withdrawn, aggressive, or overly eager to please.
Difficulty forming or maintaining relationships with peers.
Developmental delays (e.g., language, social skills) or regressive behaviors (e.g., bedwetting, thumb-sucking).

Cognitive and Emotional Signs:

Difficulty concentrating or academic struggles despite capability.
Negative self-talk or expressing feelings of being unloved or unwanted.
Depression, mood swings, or suicidal thoughts.
Unusual fear of failure or extreme perfectionism.

Impacts of Emotional or Psychological Abuse

Long-term damage to self-esteem and emotional resilience.
Increased risk of mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Difficulty trusting others or maintaining healthy relationships.
Impaired cognitive and social development.

Responding to Emotional or Psychological Abuse

Recognize the Signs:
- Stay alert to the child’s behavior and emotional state.
- Document patterns of concerning actions or statements.
Report Your Concerns:
- Follow your organization’s policies or report to the appropriate authorities if you suspect abuse.
- Provide factual information and observations without making assumptions.
Support the Child:
- Offer reassurance and validate the child’s feelings.
- Avoid making promises you cannot keep (e.g., “Everything will be better now”).
Engage Professionals:
- Involve counselors, psychologists, or social workers to provide the child with appropriate emotional and psychological support.

Physical Abuse

Physical abuse refers to the intentional use of force that results in or has the potential to cause physical injury, harm, or pain to a child or another individual. It involves deliberate acts of violence, mistreatment, or punishment that are inappropriate or excessive, often resulting in visible injuries, emotional distress, or long-term trauma.

Forms of Physical Abuse

Harmful Actions:
- Hitting, slapping, punching, or kicking.
- Shaking, throwing, or dragging a child.
- Burning or scalding.
- Biting, choking, or suffocating.
- Using objects (belts, sticks, etc.) to inflict harm.
Excessive Discipline or Punishment:
- Administering physical punishment that is disproportionate, excessive, or cruel.
- Denying a child basic needs like food, water, or sleep as a form of punishment.

Signs of Physical Abuse

Physical Signs:

Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, fractures, or other injuries.
Injuries in various stages of healing or patterns that suggest intentional harm.
Frequent visits to healthcare providers or attempts to hide injuries.

Behavioral Signs:

Fear of adults or specific individuals.
Flinching or cowering as if expecting to be struck.
Reluctance to discuss injuries or provide unconvincing explanations.
Aggression, withdrawal, or other sudden changes in behavior.

Emotional Signs:

Anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem.
Difficulty trusting others or forming relationships.
Showing signs of hypervigilance or fear in certain environments.

Impacts of Physical Abuse

Short-Term Effects:
- Physical pain, injuries, and medical complications.
- Immediate emotional distress, such as fear, anger, or confusion.
Long-Term Effects:
- Chronic physical conditions, including disabilities resulting from severe injuries.
- Psychological trauma, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Difficulty forming trust-based relationships or displaying healthy emotional regulation.
Developmental Impacts on Children:
- Impaired cognitive, social, and emotional development.
- Delayed academic progress or learning difficulties.

Responding to Physical Abuse

Recognize the Signs:
- Stay alert to physical and behavioral indicators of abuse.
- Understand that victims may try to hide their injuries or protect the abuser.
Report the Abuse:
- Follow organizational protocols or local laws to report suspected or confirmed abuse.
- Notify child protective services or law enforcement as appropriate.
Ensure the Victim’s Safety:
- Remove the victim from harmful situations or environments.
- Provide immediate medical care for any injuries.
Support the Victim:
- Offer emotional and psychological support to help them recover.
- Connect them with counselors, social workers, or other trusted professionals.
Educate and Advocate:
- Raise awareness about the harm caused by physical abuse and the importance of prevention.
- Encourage positive, nonviolent disciplinary methods.

Sexual Abuse

Youth sexual abuse refers to any form of sexual contact or behavior between an adult and a minor (under the age of consent) or between individuals of similar age where there is an imbalance of power, coercion, or manipulation. This includes physical contact, such as touching or penetration, as well as non-physical acts such as verbal harassment, exposure to explicit content, or other forms of sexual exploitation. Youth sexual abuse can cause significant physical, emotional, and psychological harm to the victim and is a violation of their dignity, safety, and trust.

Forms of Sexual Abuse

Contact Abuse:
- Any form of inappropriate touching, such as fondling, genital contact, or sexual intercourse.
Non-contact Abuse:
- Exposure to sexual acts, pornography, or sexual comments.
- Forcing or coercing a young person to engage in sexual acts, or watch sexual acts.
Exploitation or Grooming:
- Manipulating or building a relationship with a youth for the purpose of sexual exploitation.
- Offering gifts, money, or attention to gain trust and control for abusive purposes.
Sexual Harassment:
- Inappropriate sexual comments, gestures, or advances that create a hostile environment for the youth.
Sex Trafficking or Commercial Sexual Exploitation:
- Coercing or manipulating a youth to engage in sex for money, goods, or other benefits.
Online Abuse:
- Sharing explicit images or videos, cyberstalking, or sending sexual messages or requests via digital platforms.

Signs of Sexual Abuse

Physical Signs:

Difficulty walking or sitting.
Unexplained bruising, pain, or bleeding in the genital or anal area.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pregnancy in minors.
Torn or stained clothing or bedding.

Behavioral Signs:

Sudden changes in behavior, such as withdrawal, depression, or anxiety.
Displaying sexualized behavior or knowledge beyond their age.
Fear of certain people, places, or situations.
Trouble trusting others, especially adults, or forming relationships.
Avoidance of certain activities or locations (e.g., refusing to go to a specific place or see a specific person).

Emotional Signs:

Low self-esteem or guilt about the abuse.
Confusion, shame, or embarrassment about their bodies or sexuality.
Nightmares, flashbacks, or severe emotional distress when discussing certain topics.
Fear of intimacy or being touched.

Impacts of Sexual Abuse

Physical Effects:
- Injuries resulting from the abuse.
- Increased risk for reproductive health problems, such as STIs or unintended pregnancies.
Psychological and Emotional Effects:
- Anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or dissociation.
- Difficulty trusting others, especially adults or authority figures.
- Feelings of shame, self-blame, or worthlessness.
Developmental Impacts:
- Difficulty with emotional regulation and forming healthy relationships.
- Delayed or impaired social and cognitive development.
- Struggles with body image, sexuality, and boundaries.
Long-Term Consequences:
- Increased likelihood of engaging in unhealthy relationships or becoming a victim of abuse in the future.
- High rates of substance abuse, eating disorders, or other coping mechanisms.
- Higher risk of mental health issues, including depression and suicidal thoughts.

Responding to Sexual Abuse

Recognize the Signs:
- Be alert to sudden behavioral or physical changes in the youth that may indicate abuse.
- Understand that victims may be reluctant to disclose abuse due to fear, shame, or manipulation by the abuser.
Ensure Safety:
- Prioritize the immediate safety of the youth by removing them from the abuser's influence.
- Create a safe and supportive environment for the youth to express their feelings and experiences.
Report the Abuse:
- Follow legal and organizational protocols for reporting suspected or confirmed sexual abuse.
- In many cases, this includes notifying law enforcement or child protective services.
Provide Support:
- Offer counseling, therapy, or support groups to help the victim cope with the trauma and begin healing.
- Foster a safe, understanding environment for open communication and emotional healing.
Educate and Prevent:
- Raise awareness among youth about sexual boundaries, consent, and the importance of speaking out against abuse.
- Provide training for staff and volunteers on recognizing and responding to signs of sexual abuse in young people.
- Promote healthy, respectful relationships and emphasize the importance of safe environments for youth.

Bullying

Bullying is an intentional, repeated, and harmful behavior by one or more individuals aimed at intimidating, humiliating, or exerting power over someone who is perceived as vulnerable. It can occur in various settings, including schools, workplaces, sports, and online platforms, and often has lasting effects on the victim's mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

Forms of Bullying

Physical Bullying:
- Hitting, kicking, pushing, or other physical aggression.
- Damaging or stealing someone’s belongings.
Verbal Bullying:
- Teasing, name-calling, or making derogatory remarks.
- Threatening harm or using inappropriate language to intimidate.
Social or Relational Bullying:
- Spreading rumors, gossip, or lies to harm someone’s reputation.
- Excluding someone from social groups or activities.
- Manipulating friendships to isolate or ostracize the victim.
Cyberbullying:
- Using digital platforms (social media, texts, emails) to harass, intimidate, or demean someone.
- Posting hurtful or private information online to shame or embarrass.
Power Dynamics in Bullying:
- Bullying often involves an imbalance of power, where the perpetrator uses physical strength, popularity, access to sensitive information, or authority to harm or control the victim.

Signs of Bullying

Behavioral Signs:

Reluctance to go to school, practice, or other group activities.
Unexplained injuries or frequently damaged belongings.
Withdrawal from friends or family and avoidance of social situations.
Decline in academic performance or loss of interest in hobbies.
Sudden changes in mood, eating, or sleeping patterns.

Emotional Signs:

Low self-esteem or feelings of worthlessness.
Increased anxiety, fear, or depression.
Expressing a desire to avoid specific individuals or situations.
Talking about self-harm or suicidal thoughts in extreme cases.

Impacts of Bullying

On Victims:
- Long-term psychological effects such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Difficulty forming trust-based relationships and engaging in social activities.
- Academic or professional challenges due to a lack of confidence or focus.
On Bullies:
- Increased likelihood of engaging in risky or violent behavior as they grow older.
- Difficulty maintaining healthy relationships due to learned abusive tendencies.
On Bystanders:
- Fear of becoming a target themselves, leading to feelings of helplessness or guilt for not intervening.

Responding to Bullying

Recognize the Signs:
- Pay attention to changes in behavior, mood, or social interactions.
- Take all reports of bullying seriously, whether from the victim, bystanders, or parents.
Intervene Promptly:
- Address bullying behavior immediately to prevent escalation.
- Ensure a safe space for the victim to share their experience and feelings.
Educate and Advocate:
- Foster a culture of kindness, inclusion, and respect within your organization.
- Conduct workshops or programs to teach children about the impact of bullying and the importance of standing up against it.
Involve Authorities:
- If the bullying involves serious threats, physical harm, or harassment, report it to the appropriate authorities or follow organizational protocols.
Support the Victim:
- Provide emotional and psychological support to help the victim regain confidence and resilience.
- Encourage open communication to ensure they feel heard and valued.

Reporting

Who is a

MANDATORY Reporter?

In Utah, a mandatory reporter is anyone who has reason to believe that a child or vulnerable adult has been abused, neglected, or exploited. They are legally required to report the abuse to the proper authorities:

Children: Report to the Division of Child and Family Services or the nearest law enforcement agency.
Vulnerable adults: Report to Adult Protective Services or the nearest law enforcement agency.

You are a mandatory reporter

Mandatory Reporter Legal Protections in Utah

Good faith protection: In Utah, if you report suspected abuse in good faith, you are immune from liability. Even if it turns out that no abuse occurred, as long as you reported with good intentions and based on a reasonable suspicion, you cannot be sued for making the report.
Failure to report: Failing to report suspected child abuse is a class B misdemeanor in Utah. If the abuse is not reported and it leads to further harm, the penalty can escalate.

How to report Child Abuse

Recognize
The Signs of Abuse

The first step is to be aware of the signs of abuse, which may be physical, emotional, sexual, or the result of neglect. It’s important to note that mandatory reporters do not need to have definitive proof of abuse, only a reasonable suspicion based on observable signs or disclosures from the child.

Document Information

If you suspect abuse, it’s important to document your observations in a factual, non-judgmental way. Record any:

Physical signs (bruises, cuts, burns, etc.)
Behavioral changes (withdrawal, aggression, fear of certain individuals, etc.)
Disclosures made by the child (exact quotes, not paraphrased)
Statements made by the child or others that raise concerns

Note: Keep your documentation confidential and secure, as it could be used as evidence in an investigation.

Determine the Reporting Requirements

Check the mandatory reporting laws in your jurisdiction to understand who you are required to report to. This can include local or state child protection agencies, law enforcement, or other designated entities. In many cases, you must report to:

Child Protective Services (CPS) or equivalent agency: This is the agency responsible for investigating child abuse or neglect.
Law enforcement: If the abuse is criminal in nature or you suspect immediate danger to the child, you may report directly to law enforcement.

Make the Report

When making the report, provide as much detailed information as possible. You’ll typically be asked for:

Your personal information (if required by law)
Details about the child (name, age, address, school, etc.)
Description of the abuse or suspected abuse (nature of the harm, any injuries observed, or signs of neglect)
Any statements made by the child or others
Your observations or suspicions

You can usually report abuse:

By phone (to CPS or law enforcement)
Online (some jurisdictions allow online reporting)
In person (at the relevant agency)

Key Points to Remember

Timeliness: Report abuse as soon as possible. Delays can jeopardize the safety of the child.
No Investigation by Reporter: Mandatory reporters do not investigate the abuse themselves. Their role is simply to report what they suspect.
Legal Protection: In many jurisdictions, mandatory reporters are legally protected from retaliation or liability if they report in good faith.
Anonymity: In some jurisdictions, you can make reports anonymously, although providing your contact details might help authorities gather more information.

If you're unsure about the exact steps in your area, it’s important to get familiar with your local laws and resources for reporting abuse.

Key Contact Information for Reporting in Utah

DCFS Child Abuse Hotline: 1-855-323-3237 (available 24/7)
Online resources: DCFS Website
Local law enforcement: 911 (for emergencies)
State law and guidelines: Utah Code 62A-4a-403 (for mandatory reporting)
SafeUT App: can be used to report suspected abuse, bullying, or mental health crisis.
By following these steps, you will help protect children and ensure they receive the care and safety they deserve. If you're uncertain about any specific situation, it’s always better to report and let professionals determine whether further action is necessary.

Preventions and Barrier of Abuse

Youthlinc

Code of Conduct

and Behavior Guidlines

SERVICE YEAR- ALL Participants

REAL LIFE- Volunteers

REAL LIFE- Interns

Youthlinc Youth Protection Training Certification

Thank You!

We appreciate you taking the time to help us put children first and maintain a safe space for everyone within Youthlinc.

By Completing this training module you will receive a 2 year certification applicable to All Youthlinc Programming.

In order to Complete your Module and receive your certificate please complete the Youth Protection Training Quiz:

Youth Protection Quiz

In order to receive your Youthlinc Youth Protection Certification you must complete the quiz with a score of 90% or higher.

Youth Protection Training

Objectives

Recognizing and Preventing Abuse

Establishing Boundaries and Barriers

Reporting

Certification

Disclaimer

Importance of Youth Protection

Understanding Abuse

Forms of Physical Abuse

​

Signs of Physical Abuse

​

Physical Signs:

Behavioral Signs:

Emotional Signs:

Impacts of Physical Abuse

Responding to Physical Abuse

​

Reporting

Recognize The Signs of Abuse

Document Information

Determine the Reporting Requirements

Make the Report

Key Points to Remember

Key Contact Information for Reporting in Utah

Preventions and Barrier of Abuse

Youthlinc Youth Protection Training Certification

Thank You!

Importance
of
Youth Protection

Recognize
The Signs of Abuse