NCJ Number
145832
Journal
Journal of Elder Abuse and Neglect Volume: 4 Issue: 4 Dated: (1992) Pages: 5-20
Date Published
1992
Length
16 pages
Annotation
To date, many studies on elder abuse and mistreatment have acknowledged the lack of a working definition setting out the parameters of the problem; as a result, the professional understanding and response to elder mistreatment tends to be fragmented and incomplete.
Abstract
The paradigm put forth by Johnson (1986) for defining elder mistreatment is based on an intrinsic definition which conceptualizes the phenomenon, a real definition which identifies constituent elements of the phenomenon, an operational definition which specifies measurable manifestations of the constituent elements, and a separation of the outcome of the phenomenon from the cause. Any analysis of elder abuse must consider self-neglect, neglect and abuse by family members, neglect and abuse in nursing homes, and criminal victimization. Other factors to be weighed include the financial, psychological, and physical damage; the intentional or unintentional nature of the act; the victim's age; and the relationship of the perpetrator to the victim. While the use of a "child abuse model" in responding to elder mistreatment has been criticized as being inappropriate and ageist, the approach of a "spouse abuse" model might be more useful. 61 references