Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Practice Exam

Mental injury in a child is evidenced by which of the following?

1. Discernible impairment

2. Physical injury

3. Emotional distress

4. Behavioral issues

The correct answer is: Discernible impairment

Mental injury in a child is often identified through discernible impairment, which signifies a noticeable impact on the child's cognitive or emotional functioning. This impairment can manifest in various ways, such as difficulties in learning, social interactions, or emotional regulation, indicating that the child is facing significant mental health challenges. Although emotional distress, behavioral issues, and physical injury may relate to a child's mental health, they do not specifically reflect the concept of "mental injury" as directly as discernible impairment does. Emotional distress can be a symptom or consequence of mental injury, but it may not always indicate that a mental injury has occurred. Behavioral issues can also arise from various factors and do not necessarily point to an underlying cognitive or emotional disturbance indicative of mental injury. Similarly, physical injury does not inherently relate to mental injury, even if it may provoke emotional responses. Thus, discernible impairment accurately captures the essence of mental injury by highlighting its impact on the child's overall functionality and well-being.