NCJ Number
198719
Date Published
2002
Length
15 pages
Annotation
Services and interventions in cases of child abuse have developed as responses to the problems of abuse as they have been recognized; the connections between the problems and ways of improving outcomes are the subjects of this chapter.
Abstract
The chapter advises that the goal of ending child abuse in a generation must be endorsed by most persons and by all that have professional responsibilities in dealing with the problem if it is to be achieved. Effective organization of local services and interventions to interrupt and end child abuse are more likely to occur if there is general agreement on a number of principles and values. Some of the areas in which agreement is crucial are the definition of goals and objectives; equitable delivery and complete access to services for all children and families; high standards of professional performance in all cases and all programs; governmental power and responsibilities; the duties and relationships of governmental and private providers; coordinating the work of multiple organizations and professions; authentic voices are heard; and privacy, confidentiality, and communication. Agreement is also needed in recognizing the need for cultural change and the ending of violence against women and the elderly in the home. The organization of services and interventions requires the recognition and reporting of maltreatment, a detailed assessment of children suspected of being abused, the assessment of hospitalized children, the investigation of fatal child abuse cases, ongoing interventions and services to families, and the provision of abuse-focused mental health services. The chapter concludes with a discussion of prevention programs as well as political and economic considerations in addressing child maltreatment. A glossary and 39 references