TITLE:

TITLE: Medicolegal Aspects of Child Abuse.

AUTHOR: Myers, J. E. B.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Pacific Univ., Sacramento, CA. McGeorge School of Law.

SOURCE: In: Reece, R. M. (Editor). Treatment of Child Abuse: Common Mental Health, Medical, and Legal Practitioners. Johns Hopkins University Press, Baltimore, MD., 2000; p. 36

ABSTRACT: Children s statements during examinations and interviews have forensic as well as medical significance. Under certain circumstances, the child s statements are inadmissible as evidence, due to the hearsay rules of evidence. There are, however, important exceptions. They include the excited utterance exception, disclosure under the doctrine of fresh complaint, statements made during diagnostic or treatment services, and the residual and child hearsay exceptions. Interviewing techniquesmust include the avoidance of suggestive or leading questions. Confidentiality and privileged communication have well-defined boundaries, and child abuse reporting laws override confidentiality and privilege. A professional called upon to appear in court as an expert witness should review only those portions of the record needed for the testimony and should document the parts of the record reviewed. Privileged and nonprivileged materials should be separated in the record. If one takes the record tocourt, limit what is taken to the intended testimony. If possible, do not take the record to the witness stand, and if it is taken, refer to it only if necessary. Expert testimony usually takes one of three forms: an opinion, an answer to a hypothetical question, or a lecture providing information to the judge or jury. Be prepared for cross-examination, understanding that the defense attorney will try to raise doubts about the expert testimony. This is done by trying to limit the expert s ability to explain, by undermining the expert s assumptions, by impeaching the expert with a learned treatise, or by raising the issue of the expert s bias toward the prosecution. 33 references. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: medical aspects of child abuse; physicians role; legal processes; expert testimony; expert witnesses; rules of evidence; hearsay rule; confidentiality

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

INTERNET URL: http://www.press.jhu.edu

TITLE: Developmental Disabilities, Trauma Exposure, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

AUTHOR: Newman, E.; Christopher, S. R.; Berry, J. O.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Trauma, Violence, and Abuse

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Tulsa Univ., OK.

SOURCE: 1(2): pp. 154-170; Sage Publications, Inc., Thousand Oaks, CA., April 2000; p. 167

ABSTRACT: It has been assumed that individuals with developmental disabilities are a group of individuals at greater risk for exposure to abuse and neglect, although there is no evidence documenting a higher prevalence or incidence of trauma exposure and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among those with developmental disabilities. This article distinguishes biases about the relative vulnerability of individuals with developmental disabilities from facts. The discussion reviews the current scientific evidence regarding to the rates of trauma exposure among individuals with developmental disabilities, the probable applicability of PTSD among this group, and the scientific basis of clinical assessment. Using the lens of traumatic stress studies, the article recommends a research agenda and the creation of an empirically formed social policy that does not reinforce stigma but provides accurate, respectful, and necessary protections. 86 references and 1 table. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: child abuse research; risk factors; research reviews; developmental disabilities; trauma; posttraumatic stress disorder; incidence; research needs

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

INTERNET URL: http://www.sagepub.com/

TITLE: Institutional Care: Risk From Family Background or Pattern of Rearing?

AUTHOR: Roy, P.; Rutter, M.; Pickles, A.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Institute of Psychiatry, London (England).

SOURCE: 41(2): pp. 139-149; Cambridge University Press, Oxford (England)., 2000; p. 240

ABSTRACT: Previous research has shown that children receiving substitute parental care tend to have high rates of emotional and behavioral disturbance, but uncertainty remains on the extent to which this derives from genetic risk, adverse experiences before receiving substitute care, or from risks associated with substitute care experiences. In order to examine the effects of institutional rearing (as a specific form of substitute care), two groups of primary school children reared in substitute care from before the age of 12 months were compared: 19 children in residential group (institutional) care and 19 in continuous stable foster family care (matched for age and gender). The two groups were similar in biological family characteristics with high rates of psychopathology and social malfunctioning, but differed with respect to pattern of rearing. Both groups were compared with classroom controls, using teacher questionnaires, systematic classroom observations, and standardized cognitive testing. Parental questionnaires were also obtained for the two substitute care groups. As found previously, the combined substitute care groups differed from controls in showing a high level of hyperactivity-inattention. The observational measures showed a similar effect, indicating that the elevated rate was not attributable to rater bias. The teacher questionnaire and observational measures showed, however, that the increased level of hyperactivity-inattention was substantially higher in the institutional group than the foster family group. Parental questionnaire ratings showed the same contrast between the groups, except that the main difference was on unsociability and emotional disturbance rather than hyperactivity-inattention. It is concluded that, against a background of genetic and early environmental risk, institutional rearing predisposes to a pattern of hyperactivity-inattention. 39 references and 10 tables. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: child rearing; foster care; residential care institutions; sequelae; child development; behavior problems; emotional problems; child welfare research

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: Collaborating on Family Safety: Challenges for Children's and Women's Advocates.

AUTHOR: Beeman, S. K.; Edleson, J. L.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment and Trauma

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Minnesota Univ., Minneapolis. School of Social Work.

SOURCE: 3(1): pp. 345-358; Haworth Press, Inc., Binghamton, NY., 2000; p. 264

ABSTRACT: This article outlines sources of conflicts between child protection workers and battered women s advocates, and elaborates on these conflicts using child protection workers and battered women s advocates own words elicited in a series of focus groups. Differences in philosophies of practice, focus of practice, communication problems, and gender, racial, and cultural bias within the systems are highlighted. The article also describes models of cross-system collaboration in the United States, and makes recommendations for practice and policy which support collaboration across systems. The two disciplines are advised to focus on the goal of the best interests of the mother and child, hold the male batterer responsible for abuse, and promote collaboration with courts and other systems. 22 references. (Author abstract modified)

KEY TERMS: interagency collaboration; child protective services; battered women; program models; interdisciplinary approach; teamwork; multiproblem families; service delivery

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

INTERNET URL: http://www.haworthpressinc.com

TITLE: Tribal Perspectives on Over-Representation of Indian Children in Out-of-Home Care.

AUTHOR: Cross, T.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Permanency Planning Today

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: National Indian Child Welfare Association, Portland, OR.

SOURCE: 1(1): pp. 7-11; Hunter Coll., New York, NY. School of Social Work., Winter-Spring 2000; p. 371

ABSTRACT: American Indians children are over-represented in the child welfare system, with more than 12 of every 1,000 Indian children placed in substitute care. This article examines those circumstances and attempts to put the situation in a historical context. Reasons for over-representation are discussed, including historical removal of Indian children from their tribes, to present legal and political relationships among tribes, states, and the federal government, to the cultural bias faced by Indian families experiencing social ills associate with persistent poverty and racism. Historical trends are examined from the 1600s until the present day, with events leading to passage of the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978. The implications of the act are examined--the author asserts that while regarded as one of the best permanency policies to be enacted by the federal government, it remains misunderstood and maligned, and while data indicate that it has brought a reduction in the over-representation of Indian children in the system, there remains serious problems, primarily because the act provided little in the way of funding for implementation. Furthermore, problems remain because Indian children who need out-of-home placement must often become wards of the state, thus taking from the tribe its capacity to respond directly to its members' needs. The author makes recommendations for policy and practices that have the potential for improving the accessibility and quality of services for Indian families and their children, such as providing greater access to funding, development of demonstration projects, and implementation of provisions under the Adoption and Safe Families Act of 1997 to complement provisions under ICWA. Fifteen references.

KEY TERMS: tribes; american indians; out of home care; child welfare; policies; government role; icwa; historical perspective; asfa

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: An Examination of Bias in Volunteer Subject Selection: Findings From an In-Depth Child Abuse Study.

AUTHOR: Mandel, F. S.; Weiner, M.; Kaplan, S.; Pelcovitz, D.; Labruna, V.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Journal of Traumatic Stress

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Pfizer, Inc., New York, NY. Clinical and Scientific Affairs.

SOURCE: 13(1): pp. 77-88; Kluwer Academic-Plenum Publishers, Dordrecht (The Netherlands)., January 2000; p. 381

ABSTRACT: Remarkably few reported studies have tested the assumption that a research sample can be constructed which is representative of the population of interest. In order to investigate potential volunteer bias in abuse research, this study +; utilized a database assembled for an NIMH funded study investigating the relationship among adolescent physical abuse, suicidal behavior, and psychopathology. Extensive information was available concerning the nonparticipant pool from which this sample +; was assembled, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of possible sample bias. The volunteer sample of 99 abused families who agreed to participate in the study was compared on a large number of variables with a random sample of 99 abused families who +; declined to participate. Comparisons of the two groups did not support the hypothesis that the non-participating families represented a more dysfunctional population. The two groups were far more similar to, than disparate from, each other. 7 references +; and 5 tables. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: research methodology; sampling studies; volunteers; demography; family characteristics; child abuse research

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

INTERNET URL: http://www.wkap.nl

TITLE: Developmental Antecedents of Sexual Coercion in Juvenile Sexual Offenders.

AUTHOR: Johnson, G. M.; Knight, R. A.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Sexual Abuse: A Journal of Research and Treatment

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Brandeis Univ., Waltham, MA. Dept. of Psychology.

SOURCE: 12(3): pp. 165-178; Kluwer Academic-Plenum Publishers, Dordrecht (The Netherlands)., 2000; p. 441

ABSTRACT: Previous research has linked adult sex offending behavior to a multiplicity of variables, including juvenile delinquency and the experience of childhood abuse. The purpose of this study was to explore developmental pathways among childhood abuse, juvenile delinquency, and personality dimensions possibly conducive to adolescent sexual coercion. Using a retrospective self-report inventory, the extent to which juvenile sexual offenders experienced childhood trauma, engaged in adolescent delinquency, and exhibited particular dispositions and cognitive biases was measured. The effects of childhood and adolescent antecedents on sexual coerciveness were then analyzed through simultaneous multiple regression path analyses. Resultssuggest that sexual compulsivity and hypermasculinity, through misogynistic fantasy behavior, significantly discriminate verbally and physically coercive juvenile offenders from those offenders who do not report using force in their offenses. Results also suggest that alcohol abuse may play a more salient role in the expression of coercive juvenile sexual coercion than previously hypothesized. 30 references, 2 figures, and 2 tables. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: adolescent sex offenders; sex offenses; predictor variables; child development; child abuse history; juvenile delinquency; alcohol abuse; psychological characteristics

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

INTERNET URL: http://www.wkap.nl

TITLE: The Decision to Investigate: Understanding State Child Welfare Screening Policies and Practices.

AUTHOR: Tumlin, K. C.; Geen, R.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Urban Institute, Washington, DC. Population Studies Center.

SOURCE: Number A-38. Urban Institute, Washington, DC., May 2000; p. 536

ABSTRACT: There has been considerable debate about the growing number of reports investigated by child welfare workers and the declining proportion of these reports that are substantiated. Child protection investigators must often make difficult and highly subjective decisions in determining whether to substantiate a report of abuse once an investigation has been concluded. But there are sometimes other equally challenging decisions that child welfare staff must make before a case is investigated. Decisions that, if made in error, put the children's safety at risk. Research shows that since few states have explicit screening guidelines, workers use their own discretion and biases when making screening decisions, and may be influencedby other factors. In determining the effect of welfare reform or any other social policy change on child abuse, it is essential to measure changes in how child welfare agencies respond to initial allegations. Yet most policymakers and researchers have relied on data on the number of child abuse reports investigated or substantiated to assess changes in the demand for child welfare services. While the benefits, risks, and best practices for effective screening are still open to debate, policymakers andresearchers must include screening data in any assessment of changes in child welfare caseloads. Two figures; one table; 12 notes; numerous references.

KEY TERMS: child welfare agencies; screening tests; investigations; child abuse; child welfare reform; agency practice; policies; child protective services

PUBLICATION TYPE: Technical Report

INTERNET URL: http://www.urban.org

TITLE: Children and the Law: Doctrine, Policy and Practice.

AUTHOR: Abrams, D. E.; Ramsey, S. H.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Missouri Univ., Columbia. School of Law.

SOURCE: West Group, St. Paul, MN., 2000; p. 586

ABSTRACT: Written for advanced law courses about child advocacy and juvenile law, this text reviews doctrine, policy, and practice regarding the rights of children, parents, and government; the competency of children; and the lawyer's representation of children. Emphasis is placed on collaborating with professionals from related disciplines, including psychology, sociology, medicine, education, and criminology to ensure effective representation. The chapters explain the definition of the parent-child relationship, children's abilities and disabilities, abuse and neglect, foster care, criminal abuse and neglect, adoption, medical decision-making, financial responsibilities and control, regulations of child behavior, and delinquency laws and procedures. Specific topics include strategies for interviewing child witnesses, the competency of children to advise counsel, child abuse and neglect reporting statutes, the child protection system, terminations of parental rights, racial bias,child's right to protection from harm, types of placements, adoption consent, and international adoption. Contemporary legal problems are presented in each chapter for class discussion.

KEY TERMS: child advocacy; lawyers; lawyers responsibility; lawyers role; legal problems; professional training; federal case law; state case law

PUBLICATION TYPE: Book

INTERNET URL: http://www.westgroup.com

TITLE: OUT OF HOME CARE: RESIDENTIAL CARE AND GROUP HOMES: Selected Articles.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

SOURCE: NCCAN Annotated Bibliographies; 2000

KEY TERMS: orphanages; orphans; social policies; policy formation; child welfare reform; family preservation; outcomes; adoption; funding; child welfare services; institutional abuse and neglect; foster care drift; judicial role; permanency planning; florida; historical perspective; deinstitutionalization; model programs; program descriptions; program development; residential care institutions; welfare reform; political factors; private sector; poverty; therapeutic effectiveness; child placement; economic disadvantage; attitudes; child development; research reviews; psychological characteristics; research methodology; maternal deprivation; foster care; incidence; statistical data; predictor variables; social workers attitudes; public opinion; government role; discipline; state statutory law; federal statutory law; vocational training; state laws; licensing; standards; state surveys; personnel; treatment programs; program models; federal aid; grants; religious organizations; family characteristics; family life; program costs; cost effectiveness; costs; operating expenses; program planning; federal laws; sequelae; residential care; michigan; child welfare research; managed care; residential treatment; program administration; out of home care; foster children; direct service providers; emotionally disturbed children; behavior modification; therapeutic intervention; intervention strategies; service delivery; program evaluation; family programs; shared family care; adolescent sex offenders; sex offenders therapy; hispanics; american indians; african americans; models; parenting; group dynamics; control; interviews; adolescents; focus groups; family therapy; canada; cultural conflicts; residential schools; environmental stress; trauma; counselors; disclosure; mental health services; social services; mental disorders; institutions

PUBLICATION TYPE: Annotated Bibliography

INTRODUCTION:    This annotated bibliography is a product of the National Clearinghouse
on Child Abuse and Neglect Information. The references have been selected
from thousands of materials available in our database to provide you with
the most up-to-date information related to child victims, witnesses, and
perpetrators of violence.

This bibliography looks at prevention, intervention and treatment issues
in relation to the impacts of violence on children. It is presented in
three sections: children as victims of violence, children as witnesses of
violence, and children and adolescents as perpetrators of violence.
Although many references cover more than one subject area, each citation
is listed only once in this bibliography, primarily under its major
subject heading.

All documents in this bibliography are contained in the Clearinghouse
library and are referenced following the format of the American
Psychological Association (APA). Authors, titles, publication dates and
publishers are provided within this format for each reference. We are
not, however, able to provide photocopies of all materials due to
copyright restrictions. Copies of publications that are not copyrighted,
such as Government publications, grant reports, or unpublished papers,
are available from the Clearinghouse for a reproduction fee of $0.10 per
page. Journal articles and chapters in books are copyrighted and may be
found at research or university libraries.

Information Specialists can answer questions about copyright status and
ordering information, as well as guide you in selecting materials from
this bibliography or suggest other materials that may be useful to you.
In addition, Specialists are available to conduct customized searches
of Clearinghouse databases for a base fee of $5.00 plus $.20 per record.

For more information, please contact

National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information
330 C St., SW
Washington, DC 20447
Tel.: (800)394-3366 or 703-385-7565
Fax:   703-385-3206
E-mail:   nccanch@calib.com

INTERNET URL: http://www.calib.com/nccanch

TITLE: Foster Care and the Special Needs of Minority Children.

AUTHOR: Urquiza, A. J.; Wu, J.; Borrego, J.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: California Univ. Medical Center, Davis. Child Protection Center.

SOURCE: In: Curtis, P. A.; Dale, G.; Kendall, J. C. (Editors). The Foster Care Crisis: Translating Research Into Policy and Practice. University of Nebraska Press, Lincoln., 1999; p. 9

ABSTRACT: This book chapter provides an overview of some of the common mental health problems noted in foster care and describes some institutional biases affecting ethnic minority children in out-of-home care. It also addresses a broad range of practical and policy-oriented issues to administer culturally competent policy and services. Preliminary research dealing with the mental health needs of abused children entering the foster care system is presented, noting physical, emotional, and behavioral problems that in turn affect everyday functioning. The authors present examples of strategies that address and alleviate problems unique to ethnic minority children as they enter and move through the foster care system. The assert that an essential part of effective intervention services with these children include recognizing their ethnic or cultural differences from the mainstream and maintaining or reinforcing the positive cultural aspects in the childrens' foster care situation. Recognizing that demographics for ethnic minorities in the United States are rapidly changing, the authors recommend that the social welfare system must become more culturally responsive to these populations. Numerous references.

KEY TERMS: foster care; special needs; minority groups; out of home care; mental health; high risk groups; child welfare; policies

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

INTERNET URL: http://www.nebraskapress.unl.edu

TITLE: Adopted Children's Behavior Problems: A Review of Five Explanatory Models.

AUTHOR: Peters, B. R.; Atkins, M. S.; McKay, M. M.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Clinical Psychology Review

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Houston Univ., TX.

SOURCE: 19(3): pp. 297-328; Elsevier Science Ltd., New York, NY., 1999; p. 33

ABSTRACT: Although the majority of adopted children are well adjusted, adopted children show proportionately more behavior problems when compared to non-adopted children in both clinic and non-clinic populations. An extensive literature examiningbehavioral, diagnostic, and demographic characteristics of adopted children has provided several plausible explanations for the high rate of behavior problems among adopted children. In this review, the existing literature is organized into five explanatory models: 1) genetic or biosocial factors; 2) pathogenesis of the adoption process; 3) long-term effects of impaired pre-adoption child rearing; 4) referral bias in adoptive parents; and 5) impaired adoptive parent-adoptee relations. Conclusions suggest that evidence for each model is mixed at best. The authors said that noteworthy among the conclusions is the mixed results for genetic or biosocial studies and the relative absence of studies focused on identifying factors associated with disruptions in the adoptive parent-adoptee relationship. Recommendations include a psychosocial model to explain the high rate of behavior problems among adopted children. Five tables; one footnote; numerous references. (Author abstract modified)

KEY TERMS: adopted children; behavior problems; genetic factors; adoption process; adoptive parents; child rearing; adoption outcomes; program models

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

INTERNET URL: http://www.elsevier.com

TITLE: Child Abuse and Divorce: Competing Priorities and Agendas and Practical Suggestions.

AUTHOR: Faller, K. C.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment and Trauma

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Michigan Univ., Ann Arbor. School of Social Work.

SOURCE: 2(2): pp. 165-194; Haworth Press, Inc., Binghamton, NY., 1999; p. 325

ABSTRACT: This article addresses the evaluation of allegations of abuse made during divorce proceedings. It describes the challenges peculiar to cases where divorce and abuse allegations coexist, relevant research findings, and potential sources of bias. The article suggests a multidisciplinary approach that may be the optimal strategy for evaluating these cases. Specific guidelines for evaluation and decision-making are provided. 36 references. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: assessment; guidelines; multiproblem families; child abuse; divorce; case management; best practices; investigations

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

INTERNET URL: http://www.haworthpressinc.com

TITLE: The Supply of Infants Relinquished For Adoption: Did Access to Abortion Make a Difference?

AUTHOR: Gennetian, L. A.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Economic Inquiry

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Cornell Univ., Ithaca, NY.

SOURCE: 37(3): pp. 412-431; Western Economic Association International, Huntington Beach, CA., July 1999; p. 466

ABSTRACT: After examining three years worth of aggregate state data, the author suggests that the number of abortions in the United States has had an impact on the availability of infants relinquished for adoption. The premise of the model is that a woman with an unintended pregnancy faces three options: to abort the pregnancy; to relinquish the infant for adoption; or to keep the infant. The study attempts to fill the gap in previous empirical work on pregnancy resolution by taking advantageof available state-level data on the number of infants relinquished for adoption to examine the effect of abortion access over time. Results of the study show that abortion access affected the availability of infants relinquished during the 1980s in twodifferent ways. First, consistent with a theory of desired fertility, the availability of abortion providers has had the expected effect of reducing the availability of infants relinquished, particularly relative to the demand for abortion. Second, abortion law has had an unexpected negative effect, suggesting that as abortion laws have become more restrictive, the total number of unwanted births may decrease. The empirical results also suggest that omitted variable bias may confound the effect of some types of abortion law. Finally, to the extent that AFDC payments affect the incidence of single parenthood, the incidence of single parenthood is not correlated with the availability of infants relinquished. Two figures; four tables; 19 notes; threeappendixes; numerous references. (Author abstract modified.)

KEY TERMS: abortion; unplanned pregnancy; adoption; fertility; data analysis; federal laws; state laws; afdc

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

INTERNET URL: http://www.mdrc.org

TITLE: Media Impact on Biased Perceptual Processing of Threat-Relevant Imagery Among Patients Who Recovered Memory of Childhood Sexual Abuse Prior to the Onset of Treatment.

AUTHOR: Leavitt, F.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Journal of Child Sexual Abuse

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Rush Medical Coll., Chicago, IL. Dept. of Psychology.

SOURCE: 8(4): pp. 91-102; Haworth Press, Inc., Binghamton, NY., 1999; p. 570

ABSTRACT: Several recent studies have indicated that patients who report a history of sexual abuse on the basis of recovered or delayed recall of memory process Rorschach stimuli in ways that substantially deviate from non-abused patients. They +; exhibited sensitivity to threat-relevant imagery that was highly similar to the biased perceptual processing found among patients with continuously held memories of sexual abuse. In the present study, perceptual processing of threat-relevant imagery was +; examined as an artifact of media exposure in 40 patients who recovered memories of childhood sexual abuse as adults and in 40 patients who were not sexually abused. The two patient samples were divided into high and low media groups on the basis of a +; composite measure of media exposure. The results indicated that information gained from media exposure was unrelated to patients responses to Rorschach stimuli. Recovered memory patients produced threat-relevant imagery that is reminiscent of trauma +; irrespective of the level of media exposure; non-abused patients did not. That this imagery remained essentially unnoticed by even the most active consumers of the sexual abuse media among non-abused patients suggests that the popular media does not play+; a contagious role in the perceptual process of threat-relevant imagery. 23 references and 3 tables. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: memory; repression; adults abused as children; sexual abuse; sequelae; psychological evaluation; mass media; child abuse research

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

INTERNET URL: http://www.haworthpressinc.com

TITLE: Judicial Responses to the Protective Parent's Complaint of Child Sexual Abuse.

AUTHOR: Neustein, A.; Goetting, A.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Journal of Child Sexual Abuse

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Help Us Regain the Children Research Center, New York, NY.

SOURCE: 8(4): pp. 103-122; Haworth Press, Inc., Binghamton, NY., 1999; p. 580

ABSTRACT: The purpose of this paper is to supplement the existing body of literature on judicial bias against protective parents who allege sexual abuse in contested custody/visitation cases. This is done by identifying specific patterns that emerge in the study of such protective parent cases processed in the family courts and child protective service agencies. A classification of case outcome is constructed from 300 cross-sectional and longitudinal protective parent cases studied by the Help Us Regain the Children Research Center. Twenty percent of the cases reviewed resulted in a negative case outcome, in which the allegedly abusive parent was granted primary legal and physical custody of the child. Seventy percent of the cases were categorized as having a moderate case outcome, in which the parents were granted joint physical and sometimes legal custody of the child, or which granted liberal visitation with the allegedly abusive parent. Ten percent of the cases had a positive outcome, in which the protective parent obtained full legal and physical custody of the child, with supervised visits granted to the allegedly abusive parent. Contributing factors to each type of case are identified. The study's intent is not only to examine the patterns that emerge in protective parent cases, but to offer recommendations for policy changes in legislation to make the family courts and child welfare agencies more responsive to the needs of sexually abused children. 45 references. (Author abstract modified)

KEY TERMS: sexual abuse; custody disputes; abuse allegations; judicial role; judicial decisions; longitudinal studies; parental alienation syndrome; false allegations

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

INTERNET URL: http://www.haworthpressinc.com

TITLE: Black Siblings: A Relationship for Life.

AUTHOR: Goldstein, B. P.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Durham Univ. (United Kingdom). Centre for Applied Social Studies.

SOURCE: In: Mullender, A. (Editor). We Are Family: Sibling Relationships in Placement and Beyond. British Agencies for Adoption and Fostering, London (United Kingdom)., 1999; p. 598

ABSTRACT: Black sibling relationships are enhanced by opportunities to take care of each other, share adversity, share environment, and interact without parents. However, overwhelming adversity, separation, and skin tone bias can interfere in thedevelopment of attachment between brothers and sisters. Family support services, as well as placement decisions, should reinforce the situations that promote permanency and improve resilience. Black siblings should be placed together and encouraged to develop reciprocal relationships. The placement should consider the emotional characteristics of the home and the level of understanding of the caregivers about racism. Siblings that are separated should be supported in efforts to sustain contact with brothers and sisters. Placement with a black caregiver is recommended when removal from the home is necessary. 60 references.

KEY TERMS: siblings; sibling relationships; african americans; cultural factors; cultural issues; cultural values; family relationships; child placement

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

INTERNET URL: http://www.baaf.org.uk

TITLE: Cultural Aspects and Adaptations of FGDM: A State's Perspective.

AUTHOR: Beck, C.; Belgarde, R. L.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Montana State Child and Family Services, Missoula.

SOURCE: In: 1999 Family Group Decision Making National Roundtable and International Conference: Summary of Proceedings, Seattle, WA, May 12-14. American Humane Association, Englewood, CO. Children's Div., May 12-14, 1999; p. 693

ABSTRACT: Family group conference facilitators working with Native American families need to have a good understanding of the role of culture in family relationships and individual behavior. They should be sensitive to cultural differences, variations in communication styles, and biases that might prevent group participants or agencies from working together. The Montana family group decision-making model ensures that these factors are considered in a strategy that combines the approaches ofthe Family Group Conference model and the Family Unity Model. The integrated model, which has been used successfully with Native American families, emphasizes thorough preparation of conference participants and a clear process of goal identification, strengths assessment, and needs analysis. The family meets in private, without professionals, to develop the plan. Special modifications to the model have been made to engage Native American families, such as appointing a Native American social worker orspiritual person to recruit extended family members. Conferences also comply with family requests for prayer, conference format, and refreshments. As a result of the culturally sensitive family conference model, more children are able to live at home and a greater number of children have been placed with kin instead of in non-family foster care. 3 references.

KEY TERMS: family group conferencing; cultural issues; cultural sensitivity; cultural competency; program models; montana; american indians; communication

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

INTERNET URL: http://www.americanhumane.org

TITLE: Adoption and Subsidized Guardianship as Permanency Options in Kinship Foster Care: Barriers and Facilitating Conditions.

AUTHOR: Mason, S. J.; Gleeson, J. P.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Illinois Univ., Chicago. Dept. of Clinical Social Work in Psychiatry.

SOURCE: In: Gleason, J.; Hairston, C. F. (Editors). Kinship Care: Improving Practice Through Research. Child Welfare League of America, Washington, DC., 1999; p. 775

ABSTRACT: A qualitative study of caseworkers in Illinois was conducted in 1997 to identify barriers and conditions that support permanency for children in foster care. The study was intended to inform several initiatives and policies designed to promote permanency planning in the state. Data were collected during subsidized guardianship waiver demonstration planning meetings; staff meetings; training programs for caseworkers on decision-making related to permanency; informal discussions with caseworkers; and interview questionnaires. Agency administrators, supervisors, and caseworkers demonstrated a commitment to permanency planning, especially adoption. Performance-based contracting and the Court Improvement Project were identified by the study participants as motivating influences. Barriers to permanency included family dynamics, caseworker bias, caseworker knowledge and skills, failure to apply nonadversarial strategies, limited resources, the culture of the child welfare system, the legal system, and procedures. These findings illustrate the importance of strong leadership, professional training, casework supervision, support for supervisors, and community-based services. 28 references.

KEY TERMS: adoption; subsidized guardianship; kinship care; permanency planning; barriers; predictor variables; decision making; illinois

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

INTERNET URL: http://www.cwla.org

TITLE: The Idealization of Women: Its Role in the Minimization of Child Sexual Abuse by Females.

AUTHOR: Hetherton, J.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Abuse and Neglect

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Birmingham Univ., Edgbaston (England). School of Psychology.

SOURCE: 23(2): pp. 161-174; New York, NY, Elsevier Science, February 1999

ABSTRACT: Literature on female perpetrated child sexual abuse was reviewed to examine how cultural myths about women inhibit recognition of this phenomenon. Part One of the article evaluates evidence concerning beliefs about child sexual abuse by women which minimizes the problem. Common myths that abuse perpetrated by females is rare, that sexual abuse is primarily committed by males, that sexual abuse by women is gentle or not harmful, and that women who sexually abuse children are mentally ill are examined. Part Two provides a theoretical account of psychological processes that are hypothesized to maintain these beliefs. The third section illustrates the biases of professionals working in the area of child sexual abuse. Recommendations for future professional practices are made. 70 references. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: sexual abuse; female sex offenders; social attitudes; social values; sex roles; literature reviews; cultural factors; social workers attitudes

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: Influence of the History on Physician's Interpretations of Girls' Genital Findings.

AUTHOR: Paradise, J. E.; Winter, M. R.; Finkel, M. A.; Berenson, A. B.; Beiser, A. S.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Pediatrics

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Boston Univ. School of Medicine, MA. Dept. of Pediatrics.

SOURCE: 103(5): pp. 980-986; Elk Grove Village, IL, American Academy of Pediatrics, May 1999

ABSTRACT: Because physicians customarily obtain histories before examining children in cases of possible sexual abuse, and because the resulting diagnostic opinions can influence important social and legal decisions, the researchers investigated whether clinical histories influence physicians' interpretations of girls' genital findings. In mailed questionnaires, 1,387 randomly selected members of the American Academy of Pediatrics and all 802 member of 4 professional groups concerned with child abuse or pediatric gynecology were asked to interpret 7 simulated cases. Respondents were asked to interpret 7 additional cases in separate questionnaires mailed 4 months later. Both sets of cases involved the same 7 photographs of girls' external genitalia. However, in 6 of the 7 case pairs, the histories in the 2 questionnaires differed in the extent to which they suggested sexual abuse. In the remaining (control) pair, the same history was presented in both questionnaires. Of 2,189 physicians, the responses from 604 physicians were eligible for analysis. Overall, the genital findings were interpreted most consistently by the most experienced physicians and least consistently by the least experienced physicians. The proportion of physicians whose interpretations of a photograph reversed in the direction suggested by the change in the associated history from no indication of abuse to possible abuse, or vice versa, ranged for experienced physicians from none to 5.6 percent; for moderately experienced physicians from 1.6 percent to 19.8 percent; and from inexperienced physicians from 3.6 percent to 27.2 percent. This difference between the experience groups was statistically significant in 4 case pairs. Mean interpretation scores for genital findings changed significantly when the histories changed in 2 case pairs for the experienced physicians, in 5 pairs for the moderately experienced physicians, and in all 6 pairs for the inexperienced physicians. The authors concluded that in some cases and especially for less experienced physicians, diagnostic expectation appears likely to influence physicians' interpretations of girls' genital findings. Physicians should be alert to the possibility of diagnostic expectation bias and its potentially serious social and legal consequences. 3 tables, 1 figure, and 30 references. (Author abstract modified)

KEY TERMS: physical examinations; physicians; diagnoses; questionnaires; child abuse history; sexual abuse

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: Delinquency Proceedings and The Indian Child Welfare Act.

AUTHOR: Scotta, K. J.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Michigan Child Welfare Law Journal

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Michigan Indian Legal Services, Traverse City.

SOURCE: 3(1): pp. 19-21; Michigan Univ., Ann Arbor. Michigan Child Welfare Law Resource Center, Winter 1999

ABSTRACT: This article, directed at lawyers in Michigan, reviews the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) and delinquency proceedings. Specifically excluded from the scope of the ICWA's definition of child custody proceedings are placements based upon acts which, if committed by an adult, would be deemed a crime... ICWA defines child placement to include proceedings against juveniles which may lead to foster care and proceedings against status offenders and those charged with minor misdemeanant behavior who would be covered by the prohibition against incarceration in secure facilities by the Juvenile Justice and Delinquent Prevention Act of 1974. Controversy over what constitutes a child custody proceeding has arisen because the full scope of the ICWA is not commonly asserted or applied outside the context of protective proceedings. In issuing the 1979 Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Guidelines for the implementation and enforcement of ICWA, the BIA provided that status offenses resulting in the termination of the parent and child relationship fall within the scope of the ICWA's definition of a child custody proceeding. When offenses lead to action to terminate parental rights, they are usually premised on the conclusion that the present custodian of the child is not providing adequate care and supervision. Michigan has codified the non-binding BIA Guidelines concerning the applicability of ICWA in delinquency cases into binding Court Rules. Many judges and lawyers remain unfamiliar with the ICWA which is one of the reasons why the scope of the Act is not routinely addressed in delinquency cases. Failure to apply the procedural and substantive provisions of the ICWA to status offense-based, delinquency cases results in improper pursuit of State mandated priorities in circumvention of the ICWA's federally mandated priority of protecting the tribes' interests in keeping Indian families together. The author concludes that the provisions of the Act must be consistently asserted and applied to all cases which fall under the ICWA's definition of child custody proceedings, including status offense-based delinquency proceedings. Ambiguities of the ICWA can be found in the discretionary nature of the BIA Guidelines, and in the applicability to delinquency proceedings. Michigan has removed all ambiguity by codifying the plain language of the Act and its supporting BIA Guidelines into Court Rules. Numerous references.

KEY TERMS: juvenile delinquency; american indians; michigan; federal laws; lawyers; guidelines

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: Developing a Contextual Matrix.

AUTHOR: Ryan, G.; Bilbrey, C.; Dick, J.; Fuente, T. et al.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Colorado Univ., Denver. Kempe Children's Center.

SOURCE: In: Ryan, G.; Lindstrom, B. R.; Indart, G.; Yager, J.; et al. (Editors). Web of Meaning: A Developmental-Contextual Approach in Sexual Abuse Treatment. Brandon, VT, Safer Society Press, 1999; pp. 19-31

ABSTRACT: This chapter describes the development of a contextual matrix used for differential outcomes for victims of childhood sexual abuse. The authors divided the experience of sexual abuse into these variables: experience of sexual abuse, disclosure, outcomes, and long-term outcomes. The authors make the case that each sexual abuse victim has had a unique experience and they hypothesized which variables in the child, the family, and the prior life experience might be most relevant and influential in shaping how the child perceives and accommodates sexual abuse in the context of his or her view of the world. Many of these variables were drawn from the experiences of clinicians treating adolescents and adults, looking retrospectively at risk factors and protective factors. The authors finalized the matrix by including early life factors and thus it became a map to plot different developmental pathways that traverse (rather than begin with) the experience of sexual abuse. Using this contextual view supports a more personal and holistic approach to child victims. Although victims may share common issues, the ways they manage and interpret those issues cannot by assumed. The authors argue that clinicians must put aside personal bias and be open to explore the meaning of sexual victimization in the context of the client's life experience. 3 tables and numerous references.

KEY TERMS: sexual abuse; outcomes; victimization; risk factors; disclosure; development; models

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

INTERNET URL: http://www.safersociety.org

TITLE: Measurement of Client Satisfaction: The State-of-the-Art.

AUTHOR: Harris, G.; Poertner, J.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Illinois Univ. School of Social Work, Urbana. Children and Family Research Center.

SOURCE: Illinois Univ. School of Social Work, Urbana. Children and Family Research Center, 1999; 16 pp.

ABSTRACT: Assessment of client satisfaction is becoming increasingly popular because of its role in quality assurance and continuous quality improvement systems. This literature review focuses on the identification of recent measures of client satisfaction and examines them in terms of their ability to reflect clients' actual needs, the dimensions of satisfaction they are intended to measure, and their ability to obtain useful data from clients. Thirty-four client satisfaction studies published between 1990 and 1996 were identified in the following areas: mental health services (12), health services (7), family mediation services (4), child welfare/protection services, services for children with disabilities (3), and self-help groups (2). Items contained in client satisfaction measures come primarily from 3 sources: clients, professionals, and professional literature. This review organizes client satisfaction instruments according to the source by which items were generated. Each instrument is described by category. Methodological issues regarding the measurement of client satisfaction are discussed with respect to response rates and response bias. (Author abstract modified)

KEY TERMS: quality of care; program evaluation; literature reviews; data collection; research methodology; assessment

PUBLICATION TYPE: Technical Report

INTERNET URL: http://cfrcwww.social.uiuc.edu

TITLE: Common Errors of Reasoning in Child Protection Work.

AUTHOR: Munro, E.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Abuse and Neglect

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: London School of Economics, (England). Dept. of Social Policy and Administration.

SOURCE: 23(8): pp. 745-758; New York, NY, Elsevier Science Ltd., August 1999

ABSTRACT: All child abuse inquiry reports published in Britain between 1973 and 1994 were reviewed to determine whether recurrent errors in professional practice may be explicable as examples of the typical errors of human reasoning identified by psychological research. Content analysis of the 45 reports found that professionals based assessments of risk on a narrow range of evidence. It was biased towards the information readily available to them, overlooking significant data known to other professionals. The range was also biased towards the more memorable data, that is, towards evidence that was vivid, concrete, arousing emotion and either the first or last information received. The evidence was also often faulty, in the main, to biased or dishonest reporting or errors in communciation. A critical attitude to evidence was found to correlate with whether or not the new information supported the existing view of the family. A major problem was that professionals were slow to revise their judgements despite a mounting body of evidence against them. Errors in professional reasoning in child protection work are not random, but predictable on the basis of research on how people intuitively simplify reasoning processes in making complex judgements. These errors can be reduced if people are aware of them and strive consciously to avoid them. Aids to reasoning need to be developed that recognize the central role of intuitive reasoning but offer methods for checking intuitive judgements more rigorously and systematically. 37 references and 3 tables. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: child protective services; child welfare workers; child welfare research; decision making; risk assessment; great britain; psychological characteristics; evidence

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: In Large Surveys of the General Population Adoptive Families Found to Be Doing Well.

AUTHOR: Melina, L. R.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Adopted Child

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Adopted Child, Moscow, ID.

SOURCE: 18(1): pp. 1-4; Moscow, ID, Adopted Child, January 1999

ABSTRACT: This article reviews the findings of 2 studies which surveyed adoptive families drawn from large population studies, thus reducing chances of a biased sample. A 40-year longitudinal study in Great Britain (National Child Development Study) found that adoptees have greater success in education than children who were born in similar circumstances, but remained with their birth parents, and that this advantage continues into adulthood. There are some indications of how the adoptive environment contributes to this success, particularly in girls, who showed better educational outcomes than boys. A study in the United States (National Survey of Families and Households) found that in general, adoptive parents and birth parents have similarly satisfying experiences, and see no differences in their children in behavior or well being. The article notes that the positive tone of the findings in these national studies is consistent with that of other studies using similar methods. It is difficult to compare studies because each one asks different questions, collects data in different ways, looks at adoptees at different ages, and compares them to different groups. What is important is that when adoptees are studied as part of the general population, and data on them is collected as they grow up, a picture emerges that adoptees are doing well. These findings do not discount that adoptees do not have emotional issues to deal with or that every adoptee is doing well. Rather than comparing adoptive families to birth families, the focus needs to be on describing within group variability on adoptive families such as what factors contribute to healthy adoptive families. One sidebar reviews the incidence of learning disorders in the adoptee population and another sidebar focuses on fathers' involvement with children. 4 references.

KEY TERMS: outcomes; surveys; longitudinal studies; great britain; learning disabilities

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

INTERNET URL: http://www.raisingadoptedchildren.com

TITLE: Motivated Self-Deception in Child Molesters.

AUTHOR: Wright, R. C.; Schneider, S. L.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Journal of Child Sexual Abuse

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: University of South Florida, Tampa. Dept. of Psychiatry.

SOURCE: 8(1): pp. 89-111; Haworth Press, Inc., Binghamton, NY., 1999

ABSTRACT: This article introduces the concept of motivated self- deception to explain how cognitive distortions develop from normal cognitive processes in child molesters. These processes include cognitive heuristic and optimistic biases that are magnified and embellished because of deviant motivations. Several different everyday heuristic and patterns of self- deception are described, with examples of how the resulting biased information is activated and progressively organized by molesters throughout the abuse chain to accomplish specific goals. A framework is provided that distinguishes between two major groups of self-deception based on the set of functions intrinsic to each. This is followed by a discussion of how it is possible for molesters to truly deceive themselves. Finally, several treatment suggestions are provided with an emphasis on the implications for managing resistance and denial as well as fostering a sense of responsibility within molesters. 52 references. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: sex offenders; cognitive development; denial; deviant behavior; sexual deviations; sex offenders therapy; therapeutic intervention

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

INTERNET URL: http://www.haworthpressinc.com

TITLE: The Increasing Colorization of America's Child Welfare System: The Overrepresentation of African-American Children.

AUTHOR: Morton, T. D.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Policy and Practice

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Child Welfare Institute, Atlanta, GA.

SOURCE: 57(4): pp. 23-30; American Public Human Services Association, Washington, DC., December 1999

ABSTRACT: This article examines a variety of explanations for the overrepresentation of African American families in the child welfare system and the indications that these families are not being adequately served. African American children are more likely to be placed in foster care and spend longer time in care than white children. A detailed analysis of the third National Incidence Study conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reveals that the disproportionate representation of children in the child welfare system cannot be explained by income, family structure, number of children in the home, or substance abuse. However, it may be possible that African Americans are more likely to be investigated and treated with bias in the system or that interventions are not culturally competent. The most likely place for the selection bias to occur is in the risk assessment process. If more African Americans are being identified as at risk, the measures may be focusing on social or cultural characteristics of African Americans, assuming them to be associated with maltreatment. Current measures may not be valid for use with African American families. Implications for child welfare agencies are discussed. 7 references and 3 tables.

KEY TERMS: african americans; foster care; incidence; child welfare; cultural competency; etiology; risk factors; racial discrimination

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

INTERNET URL: http://www.aphsa.org/

TITLE: The Challenges of Recognizing Child Abuse: Seeing is Believing.

AUTHOR: Leventhal, J. M.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Journal of the American Medical Association

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Yale Univ. School of Medicine, New Haven, CT. Dept. of Pediatrics.

SOURCE: 281(7): pp. 657-659; Chicago, IL, American Medical Association, February 17, 1999

ABSTRACT: This article reviews the reasons why physicians have difficulty identifying child abuse in their patients. Obstacles to accurate diagnoses include the misleading history reported by caregivers, inability of children to explain their injury, personal biases of the physician, and lack of education about child abuse. The consequences of these factors are demonstrated in a study presented in the same issue of the journal that found that physicians missed abuse-related head injuries in 31 percent of 173 children younger than 3 years old. Twenty-eight percent of the children were reinjured and four children died from subsequent abuse injuries. Most of the children with missed diagnoses presented with mild symptoms. Physicians are advised to conduct a complete examination on children who have nonspecific symptoms and ask parents about how injuries occurred. Suspicious cases should be reported to a child protective services agency. 15 references.

KEY TERMS: physicians role; diagnoses; identification; detection; symptoms; physicians attitudes; physicians responsibility; interdisciplinary approach

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: State v. Michaels: A New Jersey Supreme Court Ruling With National Implications.

AUTHOR: Ross, K. L.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Michigan Bar Journal

SOURCE: 78: pp. 32-35; Michigan State Bar, Lansing., January 1999

ABSTRACT: This article analyzes the implications of the New Jersey Supreme Court decision in State v. Michaels, which held that a hearing should be held to determine the reliability of a child's testimony before trial. The taint hearing actually assesses the quality of the pretrial interview process to ensure that the questioning procedures were not suggestive. Focus is placed on the procedures used during the investigation, not the credibility of the child. The Court suggested that trial judges hold a taint hearing in any of the following situations: the lack of a tape of the initial interview; limited control over influence by family members; limited degree of spontaneous recollection; interviewer bias; leading questions; repeated questioning and interviews; vilification of the accused; bribes and threats; and other factors that would influence the child. Findings of the taint hearing will ensure that information obtained from the child's interview can be presented as evidence without violating the defendant's constitutional right to confrontation.

KEY TERMS: state case law; new jersey; child witnesses; testimony; sexual abuse; competency; right to confrontation; credibility

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: Advocacy and Child Protection.

AUTHOR: Boylan, J.; Wyllie, J.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Staffordshire Univ. (England).

SOURCE: In: Parton, N. and Wattam, C. (Editors). Child Sexual Abuse: Responding to the Experiences of Children. Wiley and Son, New York, NY., 1999; pp. 56-70

ABSTRACT: This chapter considers the role of advocacy in promoting children's involvement in the child protection process. Although children are involved in the process, their involvement is limited to subjects of intervention and concern rather than as participants. This omission reflects a general attitude within formal child protection systems that decision making and services are directed towards the protection of children on their behalf. The authors propose that advocacy is a method by which this biased approach to child protection may be challenged. Views of childhood and respect for family autonomy are reflected in the way in which children's views have been predominantly sought through an adult informant: the parent, caretaker, or professional. Next, the chapter reviews the evolution of the child advocacy movement, followed by an example of advocacy within child protection using a case conference. The chapter concludes by noting that if children are to participate positively in conferences, reviews, and the child protection process more generally, their agendas have to form part of the process from the beginning, given that the child has often played little or no part in the decision to enter the child protection system in the first place. Advocacy provides an opportunity for children to be listened to and to inform child protection. Numerous references.

KEY TERMS: child protection; child advocacy; decision making; childrens rights

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

INTERNET URL: http://www.wiley.com

TITLE: Instrument Design and Selection: A Resource Guide for Children's Trust Fund's Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Programs.

AUTHOR: Lanzi, R.; Terry, K.; Guest, K.; Cotton, J.; Ramey, C.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Alabama Univ., Birmingham. Civitan International Research Center.

SOURCE: Alabama Univ., Birmingham. Civitan International Research Center., 1999; 164 pp.

ABSTRACT: This manual provides guidelines for the selection of psychological tests for use by Children's Trust Fund Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention programs. The guide outlines standards developed by the American Educational Research Association, the American Psychological Association, and the National Council on Measurement in Education for evaluating test coverage and use, reliability, predictive validity, content validity, test administration, test reporting, and test and item bias. Instructions for using the Mental Measurements Yearbook, Tests in Print, the ERIC database, ERIC's Test Locator, and the online databases of the Child Abuse and Neglect Clearinghouse are provided and examples of searches from these resources are included. The manual also presents a table and descriptions of published child abuse and neglect prevention program measures for typical constructs, such as attachment, child behavior, child development, family functioning, and parent-child interaction. 1 table.

KEY TERMS: childrens trust funds; prevention programs; measures; psychological tests; psychometrics; standards; tests; rating scales

PUBLICATION TYPE: Book

INTERNET URL: http://www.circ.uab.edu

TITLE: THE LINK BETWEEN CHILD ABUSE AND FAMILY VIOLENCE: Selected Articles.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

SOURCE: NCCAN Annotated Bibliographies; 1999

KEY TERMS: spouse abuse; child welfare services; welfare reform; interagency collaboration; interdisciplinary approach; child protective services; battered women; multiproblem families; interagency cooperation; child welfare research; systems reform; child welfare workers; prevalence; intervention strategies; assessment; decision making; massachusetts; child abuse; statewide planning; child safety; michigan; family preservation; service delivery; model programs; courts role; juvenile courts; child welfare reform; policy formation; social policies; federal programs; funding; maternal behavior; mental health; personality disorders; mental disorders; interprofessional relationships; child protection; child welfare; tanf; poverty; colorado; primary prevention; systems development; indicators; service integration; feminism; prevention; family violence; community based services; protocols; mandatory reporting; child abuse reporting; reporting procedures; maine; risk assessment; male batterers; parental responsibility; oregon; family group conferencing; family counseling

PUBLICATION TYPE: Annotated Bibliography

INTERNET URL: http://www.calib.com/nccanch

TITLE: CHILD NEGLECT: Selected Articles.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

SOURCE: NCCAN Annotated Bibliographies; 1999

KEY TERMS: child abuse research; decision making; child neglect; definitions; risk factors; neglected children; policy formation; child neglect research; child protection; outcomes; evaluation; prevention; social policies; child welfare; prevalence; sequelae; research methodology; intervention; ecological factors; spouse abuse; termination of parental rights; child protection laws; battered women; family support systems; community based services; risk assessment; child protective services; families at risk; child fatalities; case studies; parental responsibility; child health; child development; cognitive development; emotional neglect; physical neglect; cultural competency; cultural factors; cultural sensitivity; socioeconomic status; poverty; depression; literature reviews; psychological needs

PUBLICATION TYPE: Annotated Bibliography

INTERNET URL: http://www.calib.com/nccanch

TITLE: CHILD NEGLECT RESEARCH: Selected Articles.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

SOURCE: NCCAN Annotated Bibliographies; 1999

KEY TERMS: child abuse research; decision making; child neglect; definitions; risk factors; neglected children; policy formation; child neglect research; child protection; outcomes; evaluation; prevention; research methodology; intervention; ecological factors; child development; cognitive development; emotional neglect; physical neglect; sequelae; literature reviews; models; family environment; parenting skills; predictor variables; family support systems; parental behavior; family life; family characteristics; home environment; sexual abuse; physical abuse; longitudinal studies; research reviews; child welfare research; foster care; independent living; family reunification; attachment; fathers; family structure; families at risk; individual therapy; group therapy; prevalence; intervention strategies; risk assessment; etiology

PUBLICATION TYPE: Annotated Bibliography

INTERNET URL: http://www.calib.com/nccanch

TITLE: CONFIDENTIALITY: Selected Articles.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

SOURCE: NCCAN Annotated Bibliographies; 1999

KEY TERMS: assessment; child witnesses of family violence; battered women; multiproblem families; psychological evaluation; evaluation methods; confidentiality; child abuse reporting; evidence presentation; rules of evidence; investigations; district attorneys; competency; expert testimony; hearsay rule; privileged communications; child advocacy; lawyers role; lawyers responsibility; best interests of the child; guardians ad litem; standards; ethics; best practices; illinois; courts role; professional privilege; mandatory reporting; constitutional challenges; policy information; clergys role; therapists role; clergy; religion; testimony; therapists

PUBLICATION TYPE: Annotated Bibliography

INTERNET URL: http://www.calib.com/nccanch

TITLE: CPS RISK ASSESSMENT AND DECISION MAKING: Selected Articles.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

SOURCE: NCCAN Annotated Bibliographies; 1999

KEY TERMS: child neglect; risk assessment; child protective services; evaluation; community based services; sexual abuse; assessment; credibility; disclosure; research methodology; decision making; child protection; social work; outcomes; policy formation; child welfare; family centered services; detection; symptoms; child welfare services; NCCAN; social workers attitudes; interviews; child welfare research; washington; physical abuse; service delivery; resource materials; characteristics of abuser; investigations; child welfare workers; risk factors; computer based training; social workers; models; protocols; diagnoses; probability; evaluation methods; predictor variables; well being; validity; reliability; measures; family group conferencing; family preservation; mediation; family role; new zealand; incest; child welfare reform; case assessment; intervention strategies; indicators; managed care; outcome based accountability; child abuse research; female sex offenders; police attitudes; sex roles; spouse abuse; interagency collaboration; multiproblem families; maine; abuse allegations; proof; evidence; standards; child protection laws; state surveys

PUBLICATION TYPE: Annotated Bibliography

INTERNET URL: http://www.calib.com/nccanch

TITLE: CULTURAL ISSUES IN CHILD WELFARE: Selected Articles.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

SOURCE: NCCAN Annotated Bibliographies; 1999

KEY TERMS: prevention programs; program planning; program development; program administration; cultural competency; funding; needs assessment; program evaluation; child neglect; child protection; cultural factors; cultural sensitivity; child welfare services; cultural differences; economic factors; risk factors; children at risk; hispanics; multicultural; ethnic studies; cultural values; therapists responsibility; kinship care; mediation; african americans; assessment; intervention strategies; asian americans; american indians; policy formation; social policies; child welfare; case management; case plans; family centered services; childrens services; parental role; worker client relationships; service delivery; social workers; systems reform; legislation; social work; permanency planning; decision making; foster care drift; child placement; attachment; best interests of the child; parent child relationships; cross cultural studies; professional training; child protective services; practice protocols; program models; adolescents; foster care; role models; self concept; ethnic identity

PUBLICATION TYPE: Annotated Bibliography

INTERNET URL: http://www.calib.com/nccanch

TITLE: CHILD WELFARE REFORM: CPS Selected Articles.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

SOURCE: NCCAN Annotated Bibliographies; 1999

KEY TERMS: interagency collaboration; interdisciplinary approach; child protective services; battered women; multiproblem families; interagency cooperation; child welfare research; systems reform; assessment; program models; children at risk; early intervention programs; mental health services; child protection; mental disorders; ethics; best practices; service delivery; guidelines; child welfare services; program administration; evaluation; demonstration programs; dual tracking; family centered services; child welfare reform; missouri; michigan; outcomes; community cooperation; social policies; poverty; family preservation; agency role; legislation; historical perspective; courts role; prevalence; sequelae; foster care; models; decision making; case assessment; intervention strategies; child abuse reporting; multitrack response system; investigations; virginia; social services; pilot programs; florida; data analysis; indicators; home evaluation; new jersey; program evaluation; statewide planning; program improvement

PUBLICATION TYPE: Annotated Bibliography

INTERNET URL: http://www.calib.com/nccanch

TITLE: CHILD WELFARE REFORM SYSTEMS: Selected Articles.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

SOURCE: NCCAN Annotated Bibliographies; 1999

KEY TERMS: court reform; juvenile courts; court improvement projects; program evaluation; permanency planning; expedited permanency planning; multidisciplinary teams; mediation; judges; connecticut; termination of parental rights; lawyers; child protection; state courts; substance abusing parents; family courts; drug treatment programs; child welfare services; judicial responsibility; adoption; asfa; judicial role; legal processes; hearings; california; courts role; trial courts; spouse abuse; child witnesses of family violence; program models; interagency collaboration; systems reform; service delivery; alternative dispute resolution; oregon; prosecution; victims rights; interagency cooperation; failure to protect; civil courts; courts; training; child abuse reporting; child witnesses; suggestibility; case management; courts responsibility; court jurisdiction; program development; state surveys; childrens rights; program planning; criminal justice system; investigations; program descriptions; federal programs; grants; professional training; dependency; court appointed special advocates; family group conferencing; community based services; tennessee; evaluation methods; judicial decisions; program coordination; service coordination; management information systems; best practices; historical perspective; program improvement; federal case law; policy formation; conferences; nevada; juvenile delinquency; accountability; pennsylvania; state laws; child welfare reform; new york; state statutory law; public notification; statute of limitations

PUBLICATION TYPE: Annotated Bibliography

INTERNET URL: http://www.calib.com/nccanch

TITLE: OUT OF HOME CARE: FOSTER FAMILY CARE (Excludes Kinship Care and Independent Living): Selected Articles.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

SOURCE: NCCAN Annotated Bibliographies; 1999

KEY TERMS:

PUBLICATION TYPE:

INTERNET URL:

TITLE: NONADVERSARIAL CASE RESOLUTION: Selected Articles.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

SOURCE: NCCAN Annotated Bibliographies; 1999

KEY TERMS: court reform; juvenile courts; court improvement projects; program evaluation; permanency planning; expedited permanency planning; multidisciplinary teams; mediation; new york; family group conferencing; demonstration programs; pilot programs; program models; empowerment; strengths assessment; nonadversarial case resolution; intervention strategies; decision making; family centered services; family role; kinship care; cultural sensitivity; cultural competency; african americans; adoption; foster care; child welfare reform; funding; subsidized guardianship; model programs; family courts; alternative dispute resolution; case management; child welfare agencies; child welfare services; models; ethics; courts role; lawyers role; family preservation; new zealand; child placement; minority groups; outcomes; research methodology; michigan; california; dependency; substance abusing parents; court appointed special advocates; professional training; judges; community based services; child protective services; texas; service delivery; family problems; family environment; family services; program descriptions; practice protocols; program planning

PUBLICATION TYPE: Annotated Bibliography

INTERNET URL: http://www.calib.com/nccanch

TITLE: RISK FACTORS: Selected Articles.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

SOURCE: NCCAN Annotated Bibliographies; 1999

KEY TERMS: characteristics of abuser; predictor variables; risk factors; child abuse research; families at risk; assessment; physicians role; identification; developmental disabilities; children with disabilities; pediatricians role; evaluation methods; physical abuse; preschool children; parent education; community based services; children at risk; child abuse; sequelae; prevalence; social policies; etiology; drug abuse; alcohol abuse; drug treatment programs; crime; social problems; outcomes; indicators; state government; intervention strategies; family violence; prevention programs; ecological factors; primary prevention; secondary prevention; research needs; substance abuse; measures; drug addiction; african americans; ethnic differences; pediatricians; hipanics; resilience; research reviews; child development; longitudinal studies; fetal alcohol syndrome; alcoholism; denmark; national surveys; newborn infants; home visitors; questionnaires

PUBLICATION TYPE: Annotated Bibliography

INTERNET URL: http://www.calib.com/nccanch

TITLE: Legislation Regarding the Use of Special Hearsay Exceptions for Criminal Child Abuse Cases (Current through December 31, 1999): Alabama.

INST. AUTHOR: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES; NATIONAL CLEARINGHOUSE ON CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT INFORMATION; NATIONAL CENTER FOR PROSECUTION OF CHILD ABUSE

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Witnesses Number 23

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Administration for Children and Families Administration on Children, Youth and Families Children's Bureau; NATIONAL CLEARINGHOUSE ON CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT INFORMATION 330 C Street, SW, Washington, DC, 20447, (703) 385-7565 Outside Metropolitan Area: (800) FYI-3366; NATIONAL CENTER FOR PROSECUTION OF CHILD ABUSE 99 Canal Center Plaza, Suite 510, Alexandria, VA, 22314, (703) 739-0321

SOURCE: In: Special Child Hearsay Exceptions

KEY TERMS: Statute; Alabama; Abuse; Child; Child Abuse; Child Abuse Cases; conduct; Criminal Child Abuse; Criminal; defendant; jurisdiction; Legislation; offense; ring of veracity; Special Hearsay Exceptions; trauma

PUBLICATION TYPE: Statutes

INTERNET URL: http://www.ndaa-apri.org

TITLE: Legislation Regarding the Use of Special Hearsay Exceptions for Criminal Child Abuse Cases (Current through December 31, 1999): Delaware.

INST. AUTHOR: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES; NATIONAL CLEARINGHOUSE ON CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT INFORMATION; NATIONAL CENTER FOR PROSECUTION OF CHILD ABUSE

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Witnesses Number 23

SOURCE: In: Special Child Hearsay Exceptions

KEY TERMS: Statute; Delaware; Abuse; Child; Child Abuse; Child Abuse Cases; Criminal Child Abuse; Criminal; defendant; jurisdiction; Legislation; offense; Special Hearsay Exceptions; trauma

PUBLICATION TYPE: Statutes

INTERNET URL: http://www.ndaa-apri.org

TITLE: Below the Surface: A Self-Assessment Guide For Anyone Considering Adoption Across Racial or Cultural Lines.

AUTHOR: Hall, B.; Steinberg, G.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1998

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Pact, An Adoption Alliance, San Francisco, CA.

SOURCE: Pact, An Adoption Alliance, San Francisco, CA., 1998; p. 485

ABSTRACT: Designed as a self-assessment tool, this booklet contains a multiple-choice question self-test for persons considering transracial adoption. The questions are designed to help individuals determine their level of comfort with issues +; they are likely to face after adopting across racial lines. Feedback about their areas of strength and weakness can help the prospective adoptive parent prepare for challenges ahead. The questions are not designed to have right or wrong answers, but +; to allow the people to choose answers that most closely match their feelings. The booklet is divided into four types of questions: personality questions assess tendencies in areas that relate to experiences typical of transracial adoptive parents; +; attitude questions reveal biases of both the prospective parents and society; lifestyle questions assess their lives from the point of view of the adopted child; and knowledge questions help prospective parents realize what they know or do not know about+; the history and contributions of African Americans and other groups. A Transracial Adoption Suitability Index rates the their score and provides a barometer of their suitability for transracial adoption. Resource guide.

KEY TERMS: transracial adoption; cultural issues; personality assessment; racial factors; african americans; attitudes; family life; california

PUBLICATION TYPE: Training Material

INTERNET URL: http://www.pactadopt.org

TITLE: The Effects of Sample Selection Bias on Racial Differences in Child Abuse Reporting.

AUTHOR: Ards, S.; Chung, C.; Myers, S. L.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1998

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Abuse and Neglect

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Benedict College, Columbia, SC. Center of Excellence.

SOURCE: 22(2): pp. 103-115; Oxford (Great Britain), Elsevier Science, Ltd., February 1998

ABSTRACT: This study examined whether design features of Wave 1, 1980 National Incidence Study (NIS) data resulted in sample selection bias when certain victims of maltreatment were excluded. Logistic regression models for the probability of child abuse reports to the child protective services (CPS) were estimated using maximum likelihood methods for 511 Black and 2,499 White child abuse cases. The models were estimated with and without correction for selection bias using a two-step procedure proposed by Heckman. Substantial differences were found in the characteristics of Black and White victims by source of report and by type of maltreatment. Also found were sizeable differences within each racial group between sampled agencies and nonsampled agencies. Sample selection bias affected the estimation of both White and Black child abuse reporting rates. In the Black sample, however, the effect of sample selection bias was to reduce the statistical significance of the impacts of reporting agency and physical and sexual abuse on report rates. In the White sample, most significant factors in the basic model remained statistically significant without correction for selection bias. Selection bias was found to be caused by the exclusion of family, friends and neighbors in the NIS sample design. Such exclusion has the effect of altering the interpretation of the determinants of child abuse reporting among Blacks, but not among Whites. Thus, conclusions about racial differences in child maltreatment must be reached cautiously, given the NIS study design. 19 references and 2 tables. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: child abuse reporting; child abuse research; research methodology; sampling studies; racial differences

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: Child Welfare and Substance Abuse Services: From Barriers to Collaboration.

AUTHOR: Colby, S. M.; Murrell, W.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1998

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Brown Univ., Providence, RI. Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies.

SOURCE: In: Hampton, R. L.; Senatore, V.; and Gullotta, T. P. (Editors). Substance Abuse, Family Violence, and Child Welfare: Bridging Perspectives. Thousand Oaks, CA, Sage Publications, Inc., 1998; pp. 188-219

ABSTRACT: This chapter provides an overview of barriers to collaboration between substance abuse treatment and child welfare services and describes three model programs that feature cooperation between agencies. Differences in professional missions, professional mistrust, and lack of expertise are cited as the primary obstacles to collaboration. Methods for resolving these issues, in addition to the potential impact of welfare reform, are discussed. The chapter also reviews other factors that influence policy, such as stereotypes and biases against drug-addicted parents. The ADAPT (Alcohol and Drug Abuse Project Team) program in Ohio; the MAP (Maternal Addiction Program) in Miami, Florida; and Project Discovery in Rhode Island developed innovative strategies for promoting collaboration. The ADAPT program provides substance abuse services as part of a placement prevention and family reunification effort, while the MAP project treats substance abusing mothers during pregnancy and after delivery. Project Discovery targets incarcerated women. Client characteristics and service components are described for each program. 58 references and 1 table.

KEY TERMS: child welfare services; drug treatment programs; service delivery; interdisciplinary approach; interagency cooperation; barriers; program planning

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

INTERNET URL: http://www.sagepub.com/

TITLE: Family Preservation Services and Special Populations: The Invisible Target.

AUTHOR: Denby, R. W.; Curtis, C. M.; Alford, K. A.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1998

JOURNAL TITLE: Families in Society

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Tennessee Univ., Knoxville. College of Social Work.

SOURCE: 79(1): pp. 3-14; Milwaukee, WI, Families International, Inc., January-February 1998

ABSTRACT: This article presents research findings from a national study that examined the attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors of family preservation workers regarding their use of special population service criterion. Specifically, the crucial role played by individual workers who make decisions about service delivery is explored. The relationship between decision making and special populations is explored with regard to out-of-home placements. The design of this study is descriptive research by means of a cross-sectional mail-survey method. A sample of 254 family preservation workers completed and returned the survey. Results indicate a significant bias against targeting family preservation services to children of color. Overall, workers do not appear to support targeting services using the special-population criterion because of three main reasons, namely, individual ideologies concerning the perception that the targeting criterion is exclusionary, problems with conceptualization, and a lack of resources to support service delivery. Explanations of the findings, and their implications for research and practice are also discussed. 4 tables, 1 figure and numerous references. (Author abstract modified)

KEY TERMS: child welfare workers; family preservation; racial discrimination; social workers attitudes; feasibility studies; service delivery; surveys; decision making

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: A Comparative Survey of Beliefs About Normal Childhood Sexual Behaviors.

AUTHOR: Heiman, M. L.; Leiblum, S.; Esquilin, S. C.; Pallitto, L. M.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1998

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Abuse and Neglect

SOURCE: 22(4): pp. 289-304; Oxford (Great Britain), Elsevier Science, Ltd., April 1998

ABSTRACT: This study examined the beliefs of adults about normal childhood sexual behaviors, and the influence of role, gender, and life experience on the formation of those attitudes. A survey describing 20 different scenarios of children younger than age 13 interacting with themselves or other children in a sexual manner was administered to four groups of adults: sexual abuse experts; therapists involved in a sexual abuse training program; medical students attending a human sexuality program; and group facilitators of the human sexuality program. Behaviors that involved oral, vaginal, or anal penetration were judged by a majority of adults to be abnormal sexual behaviors in children younger than 13 years old. Professionals working with sexually abused children rated certain sexual behaviors as more abnormal than adults participating in a human sexuality course. Both sexual abuse trainees and facilitators of the human sexuality course showed more directional biases than other groups, with trainees always rating behaviors in the direction of abnormal and facilitators always rating behaviors in the direction of normal. Females also judged many of the sexual behaviors to be more abnormal than males. Role and gender significantly influence what adults believe constitutes normal and abnormal childhood sexual behavior. 38 references and 3 tables. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: child behavior; sexual behavior; physicians attitudes; psychologists attitudes

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: Child Abuse and Divorce: Competing Priorities and Agenda.

AUTHOR: Faller, K. C.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1998

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Michigan Univ., Ann Arbor. Dept. of Social Work.

SOURCE: Presented at: The 14th National Symposium on Child Sexual Abuse, Huntsville, AL, March 17, 1998; pp. 102-115

ABSTRACT: This article provides guidance for professionals evaluating allegations of abuse in divorce situations. It describes the challenges peculiar to cases where divorce and abuse allegations co-exist, relevant research findings, and potential sources of bias. The article recommends a multidisciplinary approach to assess the veracity of the allegations. Specific guidelines for evaluation include: review all background information and mental health records; collect data from other professionals who are working with the family; and interview victims, siblings, both parents, and other partners of the parents. Decisions should be based on consideration of alternative explanations, as well as child behavior, context of the abuse, and medical findings. 32 references. (Author abstract modified)

KEY TERMS: custody disputes; divorce; disclosure; false allegations; assessment; multidisciplinary teams; interdisciplinary approach

PUBLICATION TYPE: Proceedings Paper

TITLE: Expectancy Effects in Reconstructive Memory: When the Past Is Just What We Expected.

AUTHOR: Hirt, E. R.; McDonald, H. E.; Markman, K. D.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1998

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Indiana Univ., Bloomington. Dept. of Psychology.

SOURCE: In: Lynn, S. J. and McConkey, K. M. (Editors). Truth in Memory. New York, NY, Guilford Publications, Inc., 1998; pp. 62-89

ABSTRACT: This chapter explains the impact of psychoencoding and expectations on the memory process. In certain situations, expectations and theories may bias the reconstructive memory process. For example, participants in a self-help group may expect that they have improved, and inaccurately recall their previous level of skills as lower than it actually was. Hirt's model of reconstructive memory asserts that memory retrieval relies on the integration of information from the present (outcome), the expected relationship between the past and the present, and the trace of the actual memory. The chapter summarizes empirical evidence that examines the role of memory traces and biases in memory recall. Variables such as the time between encoding of the event and the receipt of the expectancy, perceiver's goals during encoding, motivation for accuracy, and mismatches between motivation and expectancy were shown to determine how much weight is given to the memory trace and the degree to which expectancy influenced the memory. Motivational goals included the desire to remember with accuracy and the desire to retrieve a particular memory (whether it is accurate or not). Implications for research and psychotherapy are discussed. Numerous references and 2 figures.

KEY TERMS: memory; repression; cognitive development; psychological theories

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

INTERNET URL: http://www.guilford.com

TITLE: Textbook Models of Multiple Personality: Source, Bias, and Social Consequences.

AUTHOR: Arrigo, J. M.; Pezdek, K.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1998

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Claremont Graduate Univ., CA. School of Behavioral and Organizational Science.

SOURCE: In: Lynn, S. J. and McConkey, K. M. (Editors). Truth in Memory. New York, NY, Guilford Publications, Inc., 1998; pp. 372-393

ABSTRACT: Textbook descriptions of multiple personality disorder (MPD) were reviewed for consistency with cited sources and available scientific literature. Content and citation analyses were also performed to examine the selection of sources used to support common models of MPD and qualitative analyses compared the treatment of three major MPD cases. A review of PsycLIT abstracts published during the same period as the textbooks revealed strong support for the trauma model of MPD, which explains that MPD is caused by external, severe abusive stressors. However, the textbooks also described other models of MPD, including trait MPD, caused by an internal defect; fake MPD, or deception; and measurable MPD, which identifies the characteristics of people with MPD. Further analysis revealed that the textbooks were not consistent or complete in summarizing the cited research, especially information about trauma MPD. Likewise, the textbooks were inconsistent in fidelity to sources that reported popular MPD cases, including Bianchi, Eve, and Sybil. The social consequences of inaccuracies in textbooks are discussed. 49 references, 1 figure, and 4 tables.

KEY TERMS: multiple personality disorder; memory; repression; dissociation; social policies; professional training; literature reviews

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

INTERNET URL: http://www.guilford.com

TITLE: Recovered Memories in the Courtroom.

AUTHOR: Underwager, R.; Wakefield, H.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1998

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Institute for Psychological Therapies, Northfield, MN.

SOURCE: In: Lynn, S. J. and McConkey, K. M. (Editors). Truth in Memory. New York, NY, Guilford Publications, Inc., 1998; pp. 394-434

ABSTRACT: This chapter applies the Daubert test for admissibility of evidence into court proceedings to the presentation of expert testimony regarding recovered memories. In the ruling for Daubert versus Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals, the United States Supreme Court required judges to determine admissibility of evidence based on its acceptance as scientific knowledge and relevance to the case. Criteria for consideration as scientific knowledge include testability of the evidence, peer review and publication, known rate of error, and consensus within the scientific community. Several supreme courts and trial courts have found little scientific support for repressed memories and dismissed cases involving recovery. However, the criteria are not objective and may be misinterpreted by biased judges who elect to consider the totality of the circumstances of the evidence. The chapter reviews the nature of memory and summarizes findings from the research about suggestibility and the creation of pseudomemories. The scientific evidence of repression, dissociation and posttraumatic stress disorder, dissociative identity disorder, and body memories are discussed. The chapter also describes civil litigation, statutes of limitations, and strategies for assessing claims of repressed memories. Numerous references.

KEY TERMS: memory; repression; courts; legal processes; expert testimony; false memory syndrome; lawsuits; rules of evidence

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

INTERNET URL: http://www.guilford.com

TITLE: Bias in Child Maltreatment Reporting: Revisiting the Myth of Classlessness.

AUTHOR: Drake, B.; Zuravin, S.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1998

JOURNAL TITLE: American Journal of Orthopsychiatry

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Washington Univ., St. Louis, MO. George Warren Brown School of Social Work.

SOURCE: 68(2): pp. 295-304; American Orthopsychiatric Association, New York, NY, April 1998

ABSTRACT: Data on the degree of class bias in child protective services databases are reviewed in this article, along with recent empirical findings on the class distribution of child maltreatment. The evidence suggests high levels of child abuse and neglect among the poor and, despite debate on the question, there is no body of empirical data suggesting that these findings are a product of bias predisposing toward overestimates of child maltreatment among the poor. Implications for research, practice, and policy are offered. 40 references. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: child abuse reporting; poverty; economic disadvantage; statistical data

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: Epidemiology of Sexual Abuse of Children: Old Problems, New Directions.

AUTHOR: Leventhal, J. M.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1998

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Abuse and Neglect

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Yale Univ. School of Medicine, New Haven, CT. Dept. of Pediatrics.

SOURCE: 22(6): pp. 481-491; Oxford (Great Britain), Elsevier Science, Ltd., June 1998

ABSTRACT: This article summarizes the major findings of epidemiological studies of child sexual abuse and reviews directions for future research. Five areas of research are described: studies of prevalence; reported incidence; data obtained from children; the consequences of sexual abuse; and risk factors. Studies of prevalence have focused on the frequency of child sexual abuse, the characteristics of victims and offenders, and the types of abuse, while incidence studies have investigated the types and characteristics of abuse as reported to the proper authorities. Both types of research are limited by varying definitions and measurements of child sexual abuse. Few studies have actually interviewed children about victimization and sexual abuse because of concerns about the accuracy of reports and the safety of the children. However, research can be designed to protect children who disclose abuse during the study. The consequences of sexual abuse have been investigated in long-term cohort studies of children, case control studies, and cross-sectional studies at a single point in time. Findings from all types of studies have been weak and limited by research design. More longitudinal studies are needed to study the long term effects of abuse. Finally, studies of risk factors in sexual abuse have also failed to find strong relationships between variables. Barriers to future epidemiological research include the biases of researchers and legislators, inadequate funding, and the need to obtain the collaboration of professionals in other disciplines. 27 references and 1 table.

KEY TERMS: sexual abuse; research needs; research reviews; medical research; epidemiology

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: Reliability and Credibility of Young Children's Reports: From Research to Policy and Practice.

AUTHOR: Bruck, M.; Ceci, S. J.; Hembrooke, H.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1998

JOURNAL TITLE: American Psychologist

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: McGill Univ., Montreal (Canada). Dept. of Psychology.

SOURCE: 53(2): pp. 136-151; American Psychological Association, Washington, DC, February 1998

ABSTRACT: This article reviews issues, concerns, and research regarding the interviewing of young child witnesses. The article focuses on research on suggestibility and the influence of various interviewing techniques on the reliability and credibility of young children's reports. Interviewer bias, guided imagery, peer pressure, visualization techniques, repetition of misinformation, and selective reinforcement are described as potential sources of false allegations. Research indicates that children are able to provide reliable and accurate reports of events when the interviewer is neutral and there exists no motivation for the child to report false information. However, children can be swayed by suggestive interviewing techniques and older children are as susceptible to suggestion as preschool children. Implications for future research and for policy are discussed. 90 references. (Author abstract modified)

KEY TERMS: child witnesses; interviews; credibility; reliability; suggestibility; methods; leading questions

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

INTERNET URL: http://www.apa.org

TITLE: Aggression in the Schools: Toward Reducing Ethnic Conflict and Enhancing Ethnic Understanding.

AUTHOR: Feshbach, N. D.; Feshbach, S.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1998

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: California Univ., Los Angeles.

SOURCE: In: Trickett, P. K. and Schellenbach, C. D. (Editors). Violence Against Children in the Family and the Community. Washington, DC, American Psychological Association, 1998; pp. 269-286

ABSTRACT: This chapter presents an overview of the nature and scope of school violence, the factors contributing to school violence, and the programs that address its reduction. Statistics on the frequency of aggression and violence in schools are cited. The use of corporal punishment in schools is discussed with respect to its role in school violence. The essential features of a new project being initiated to deal with one aspect of the problem, namely, ethnic bias and ethnic conflict, are presented. This program is designed to enhance an appreciation of other ethnic groups through systematic application of empathy, and is intended to help children recognize the common experiences and shared values and ideals of diverse social groups, and to understand differences in perspectives and customs. The authors address issues bearing on aggression due to prejudice at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. They conclude that school violence will not be eliminated by addressing issues of racism and ethnic bias; however, its frequency, salience, and scope should be significancy reduced. 3 tables, 1 figure, and numerous references.

KEY TERMS: school violence; aggression; cultural conflicts; ethnic groups; students; victimization; crime

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

INTERNET URL: http://www.apa.org

TITLE: In Defense of Mothers of Sexual Abuse Victims.

AUTHOR: Corcoran, J.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1998

JOURNAL TITLE: Families in Society

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Texas Univ., Arlington. School of Social Work.

SOURCE: 79(4): pp. 358-369; Milwaukee, WI, Families International, Inc., July-August 1998

ABSTRACT: This review synthesizes the clinical and empirical literature on mothers of sexual abuse victims. Evidence is cited that maternal reaction is crucial to a child's recovery from sexual abuse. Also explored are those variables involved in a mother's belief in her child's account and the supportive actions she is able to take to protect her child. The more recent empirical work challenges earlier clinical discussions of maternal culpability in cases of sexual abuse perpetration; however, certain societal biases and oppressive social conditions that contribute to mother-blaming and that also interfere with a mother's ability to protect her children have been neglected. These biases and social conditions, as well as suggestions for social work practice are explored. 53 references. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: mothers of abuse victims; sexual abuse; literature reviews; intervention strategies; parental role; parental reactions; passive abusers

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: The Evidence for Parental Alienation Syndrome: An Examination of Gardner's Theories and Opinions.

AUTHOR: Dallam, S.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1998

JOURNAL TITLE: Treating Abuse Today

SOURCE: 8(2): pp. 25-34; Lancaster, PA, Survivors and Victims Empowered (SAVE), March-April 1998

ABSTRACT: Richard A. Gardner's theories regarding pedophilia, child abuse hysteria, and parental alienation syndrome (PAS) are critically reviewed in this article. The article summarizes Gardner's observation that allegations of child sexual abuse that arise during child custody disputes are actually the result of one parent programming the child against the other parent. In the majority of cases evaluated by Gardner, the mother convinces the child to falsely accuse the father of abuse. Gardner and other PAS-trained therapists recommend that courts impose fines and other punishment on women who influence their children to make false accusations. They suggest that the child have less or no contact with the mother and greater contact with the father to promote a healthy psychological bond. However, Gardner's theories are based solely on observation, with no scientific evidence. His assessment instrument, the Sex Abuse Legitimacy Scale, has not been validated or tested for reliability. Even supporters of Gardner's theories have indicated that the instrument should not be used during expert testimony. Conceptual problems with Gardner's theories include its reliance on circular reasoning, erroneous assumptions, and lack of consideration of alternative explanations. Critics assert that the theories endanger children, are biased against women, and promote a legal backlash against women who have legitimate reports. 42 references.

KEY TERMS: parent child relationships; child custody; custody disputes; false allegations; parental alienation syndrome; suggestibility; psychological theories; validity; reliability

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

INTERNET URL: http://child.cornell.edu/

TITLE: A Competency-Based Method for Providing Worker Feedback to CPS Supervisors.

AUTHOR: Drake, B.; Washeck, J.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1998

JOURNAL TITLE: Administration in Social Work

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Washington Univ., Saint Louis, MO. George Warren Brown School of Social Work.

SOURCE: 22(3): pp. 55-74; Binghamton, NY, Haworth Press, Inc., 1998

ABSTRACT: This study used an empirically based instrument to allow child protective service workers to provide supervisors with feedback that would help them identify their areas of strengths and weaknesses. Using a series of focus groups, researchers developed a set of supervisory competencies that served as the basis of a supervisory assessment form. Pilot testing of this form showed that mean scores varied substantially between supervisors. To avoid bias in which workers rate supervisors whom they like more positively than those they dislike, workers responded to narrowly focused questions rather than providing vague global appraisals. Of 127 packets distributed, 114 were returned (90% return rate). Among the results were that many items on the form correlated with supervisory tenure, and many of these correlations were negative. Both items relating to the workers' perception of fairness by the supervisor also negatively correlated to tenure. Supervisors who had spent more time in the field prior to being promoted to a supervisory position were not rated more highly by workers. Possible reasons for these results are suggested. The program can be used as a means to provide upward feedback throughout the administrative continuum, and is best used in an advisory context by supervisors themselves and not as the primary means by which management evaluates supervisors. Study limitations and further research needs in this area are discussed.

KEY TERMS: child protective services; child welfare workers; focus groups; competency; supervisors role

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

INTERNET URL: http://www.haworthpressinc.com

TITLE: Sexual Abuse Allegations in Custody Visitation Cases: Difficult Decisions in Divisive Divorces.

AUTHOR: Goldstein, S. L.; Tyler, R. P.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1998

JOURNAL TITLE: APSAC Advisor

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Child Abuse Forensic Institute, Napa, CA.

SOURCE: 11(3): pp. 15-18; Chicago, IL, American Professional Society on the Abuse of Children, Fall 1998