NCJ Number
224554
Journal
Child Maltreatment Volume: 13 Issue: 4 Dated: November 2008 Pages: 400-416
Date Published
November 2008
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the use of technology to improve parent-focused child maltreatment (CM) prevention efforts.
Abstract
The authors begin with a brief discussion of the current state of the CM prevention field. In the sections that follow, they review previous studies that have examined the use of technology across three facets of prevention: identification of CM; administration/augmentation of CM prevention programs; and the broad dissemination and implementation of evidenced-based CM prevention programs. Background is provided on broad-based screening and clinical assessment, and a number of technology tools are outlined concerning their use, to include: television and radio; computer and Internet technology; video-based technology; telephone technology; and video game technology. The article examines how these various technologies have been and could be utilized to enhance parent-focused CM prevention efforts. A detailed discussion is provided on using technology to disseminate preventative information. The work concludes with a discussion of limitations and problems related to the use of technology as a tool to enhance CM prevention and possible future directions, providing a discussion on technical issues; resistance from health organizations and practitioners; access gaps; ethical dilemmas; attrition; and risks involved with the use of technology. Table, references