Child Neglect: Challenges and Controversies

Citation

Proctor, Laura J & Dubowitz, Howard (2014). Child Neglect: Challenges and Controversies. In Korbin, Jill E. & Krugman, Richard D. (Eds.), Handbook of Child Maltreatment (pp. 27-61). Springer Netherlands.

Abstract

Neglect is the most common form of child maltreatment, with many short- and long-term physical, psychological and social consequences. Child neglect poses challenges to researchers, policymakers and clinicians, due partly to the inherent difficulties in defining neglect. One challenge concerns how to address a heterogeneous, multiply-determined phenomenon that often involves underlying systemic problems such as poverty. Similar challenges pertain to preventing neglect. A shift in our policy and practice paradigm is needed; alternative response systems are a promising development. Other strategies are needed to tackle systemic problems that directly and indirectly harm children. Thus, we need a combination of approaches to help ensure nurturing environments, to strengthen families and support parents, and thereby improve children’s health, development and safety, and prevent neglect.

URL

http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/978-94-007-7208-3_2

Reference Type

Book Chapter

Book Title

Handbook of Child Maltreatment

Series Title

Child Maltreatment

Author(s)

Proctor, Laura J
Dubowitz, Howard

Editor(s)

Korbin, Jill E.
Krugman, Richard D.

Year Published

2014

Volume Number

2

Pages

27-61

Publisher

Springer Netherlands

ISSN/ISBN

978-94-007-7207-6

DOI

10.1007/978-94-007-7208-3_2

Reference ID

4749