Citation

Taitz LS. Child Abuse Negl. 1980; 4(1): 55-65.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1980, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This study reports the longitudinal findings in 47 infants and children recognised as "At Risk" in whom it was decided initially that they should remain at home with case work support over a 5 year period.At the time of the study 38 children were still with one or both natural parents. On the basis of behaviour characteristics, mental development, speech attainment and growth outcome for the children, these were classified as satisfactory (12), unsatisfactory (18) and uncertain (17).A history of psychiatric disturbance was the factor most likely to be associated with an unsatisfactory outcome though generally unfavourable social circumstances such as poor housing, unemployment and a criminal record were also more frequent in the unsatisfactory group.Examination of the records indicate that the unsatisfactory group are either families with overwhelming difficulties which prevent adequate parental care or families under severe stress because of psychiatric illness or mental inadequacy. There is a need for identifying in advance those situations where failure of supportive management is likely. Intensive case work, while preventing major injury to children was relatively ineffective in preventing the subtler consequences of child abuse and neglect.The data support the arguments that in many families where child rearing practices are unsatisfactory, the problem arises from parental inadequacies which are also responsible for the negative associated social factors. The dilemma created by this situation makes action in the interests of the child very difficult.