Citation

Hay T, Jones L. Child Welf. 1994; 73(5): 379-403.

Affiliation

Center on Child Abuse Prevention Research, National Committee to Prevent Child Abuse, Chicago, IL.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1994, Child Welfare League of America)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

7924560

Abstract

A framework for understanding child maltreatment in terms of complex and interacting factors from the individual to the societal level can aid in conceptualizing and implementing prevention efforts. Research on interventions at the societal level can guide a broad range of activities, increasing their effectiveness and viability. Fundamental approaches include evaluation of specific interventions and systems-level research on implementation and development of best practice in prevention activities for different portions of society. Research can indicate the roles that each individual, agency, organization, community, and level of government can play. The U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child provides a useful framework for societal level change to improve the welfare of children and families.This article discusses research priorities for societal-level prevention interventions to prevent child abuse and neglect. Utilizing a theoretical framework for understanding child maltreatment in terms of complex and interacting factors from the individual to the societal level, it seeks to conceptualize and implement prevention efforts. This article evaluates three areas having potential for broad, societal-level intervention efforts: 1) increasing economic self-sufficiency of families; 2) enhancing communities and their resources; 3) discouraging corporal punishment and other forms of violence. In general, cultural sensitivity and information access and use cut across these intervention efforts, as well as most of contemporary social development. Hence, research should be broadly based and extended over a sufficient time frame to adequately answer many of the important and complex questions. A broad range of research efforts grounded on a good evaluation of ongoing and new interventions are required for interventions to decrease risk factors or enhance protective factors. In addition, cross-site and systems-level research will help determine best practice, and the optimal ways to communicate that best practice to the appropriate audiences.

Language: en