Child Protection Investigation Specialist (CPIS) Practice Exam

What type of bruising is characterized by specific patterns?

1. Asymmetrical Bruising

2. Patterned Bruising

3. Random Bruising

4. Accidental Bruising

The correct answer is: Patterned Bruising

Patterned bruising is characterized by specific shapes or patterns that can be traced back to an identifiable source of trauma, often reflecting the object that caused the injury. This type of bruising can reveal critical information during investigations, as it may indicate abuse or intentional harm. For example, if a bruise has the distinct pattern of a handprint or an object such as a belt buckle, it suggests that the bruising was not the result of accidental injury but instead points towards a deliberate act. Understanding the nature of patterned bruising is important for investigators and child protection specialists as they assess the credibility of claims regarding how injuries occurred and work to determine the safety and well-being of children. In contrast, the other types of bruising mentioned do not have specific patterns that suggest a source, making them less informative in distinguishing between accidental and harmful injuries.