NCJ Number
147080
Journal
Clinical Psychology Review Volume: 13 Dated: (1993) Pages: 501-540
Date Published
1993
Length
40 pages
Annotation
Intervention studies targeting risk factors in child physical abuse and neglect were reviewed; programs addressing parental competency enhancement with a wide range of at-risk individuals, including new parents and teenage parents, formed the principal data base.
Abstract
Outcome evaluation studies using an appropriate research methodology were identified from the 1977-1990 period. Maternal global adjustment and childrearing skills were principal intervention targets, and significant gains were shown in these areas across the 34 studies reviewed. The promotion of child cognitive development and child behavioral competencies was a secondary target of intervention in many studies. More modest gains in these areas were found, especially for behavioral competencies. Programs based on an individualized approach were most successful, particularly with parents considered to be at greater risk of maltreatment. Based on study findings, the authors conclude that specific strategies to address identified needs of the parent, child, and family situation hold the most promise for child abuse and neglect prevention, as opposed to nonspecific support and assistance. Theoretical constructs for consideration in the development and evaluation of child abuse prevention strategies are discussed, as well as methodological and applied issues. 73 references and 3 tables