TITLE:

TITLE: Impact of Child Noncompliance on Stress Appraisals, Attributions, and Disciplinary Choices in Mothers at High and Low Risk for Child Physical Abuse.

AUTHOR: Dopke, C. A.; Milner, J. S.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Abuse and Neglect

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Northern Illinois Univ., DeKalb. Dept. of Psychology.

SOURCE: 24(4): pp. 493-504; Elsevier Science Ltd., New York, NY., April 2000; p. 179

ABSTRACT: This study investigated the impact of repeated child noncompliance on stress appraisals, attributions, and disciplinary choices in high- and low-risk mothers. Twenty-five high risk and 25 demographically matched low-risk mothers responded to questions related to stress appraisals, attributions, and disciplinary choices following presentations of a child engaging in repeated noncompliance. After repeated child noncompliance, high-risk, compared to low-risk, mothers perceived morethreat and uncontrollability, rated child behaviors as more stressful, and reported higher levels of negative affect. High-risk mothers also reported more stable, global, and intentional attributions, with a trend toward more internal attributions, but did not differ in their evaluation of wrongness and seriousness of the child's behavior. After repeated noncompliance, a risk group difference was found in estimates of future child compliance but not in the use of power assertive discipline. Results support the view that high-risk, relative to low-risk, mothers are differentially responsive to stressful situations and differ in their attributions for negative child behaviors and in their expectations of future child compliance. However, since risk group differences in disciplinary choices were not also found, additional research is needed to demonstrate the process through which risk group cognitive and affective differences are related to differences in disciplinary behavior. 57 references and 4 tables. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: mothers; child behavior; parental attitudes; discipline; child abuse research; risk factors; parental expectations; high risk groups

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: Coping Strategies and Burnout Among Veteran Child Protection Workers.

AUTHOR: Anderson, D. G.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Abuse and Neglect

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Kentucky Univ., Lexington. Coll. of Social Work.

SOURCE: 24(6): pp. 839-848; Elsevier Science, Ltd., New York, NY., June 2000; p. 200

ABSTRACT: This study examined how veteran child protective service investigations workers cope with job stress and the relationship between coping strategies and levels of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and sense of reduced personal accomplishment (burnout syndrome). Cross-sectional, self-report methodology was used to measure coping strategies and the burnout syndrome. The voluntary subjects were 151 front-line child protective service workers with at least 2 years experience in a southeastern Department of Social Services. They attended one of nine stress management workshops provided in various locations around the state. Quantitative analyses were run on the data. These workers perceived themselves to use Engaged (active) coping strategies more than Disengaged (avoidant) strategies. Sixty-two percent of participants scored in the high range on Emotional Exhaustion, the aspect some researchers consider to be the heart of Burnout. Those who used Engaged coping were less likely to feel depersonalized and more likely to feel a sense of personal accomplishment. Neither the use of active nor avoidant coping strategies saved these workers from Emotional Exhaustion. The problem-focused strategies they are taught and use most do not help deal with the emotional content and context of their work, suggesting the use of emotion-focused coping to prevent and remediate burnout. 39 references and 3 tables. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: child welfare workers; coping skills; well being; child protective services; psychological characteristics; stress management; investigations; child welfare research

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: The Influence of Personality and History of Sexual Victimization in the Prediction of Juvenile Perpetrated Child Molestation.

AUTHOR: Hunter, J. A.; Figueredo, A. J.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Behavior Modification

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Virginia Univ., Charlottesville. School of Medicine.

SOURCE: 24(2): pp. 241-263; Sage Publications, Inc., Thousand Oaks, CA., April 2000; p. 241

ABSTRACT: Structural equation modeling was used to delineate the relationship between sexual victimization and personality variables in the prediction of patterns of child molestation in adolescent males. Two hundred thirty-five adolescents, representing subsamples of sexually victimized and nonvictimized, perpetrating and nonperpetrating, and emotionally maladjusted and nonmaladjusted youths, participated in the study. Juvenile child molesters were found to have more pessimistic explanatorystyles and deficits in self-sufficiency relative to nonoffending youths. A younger age at time of victimization, a greater number of incidents, a longer period of waiting to report the abuse, and a lower level of perceived family support postrevelation of the abuse were found to be predictive of subsequent sexual perpetration. Implications for treatment are discussed. 44 references, 1 figure, and 2 tables. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: adolescent sex offenders; sexual abuse; child abuse history; sequelae; characteristics of abuser; personality; predictor variables; child abuse research

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: The Relevance of Narrative Research With Children Who Witness War and Children Who Witness Woman Abuse.

AUTHOR: Berman, H.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment and Trauma

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: University of Western Ontario, London (Canada). School of Nursing.

SOURCE: 3(1): pp. 107-125; Haworth Press, Inc., Binghamton, NY., 2000; p. 253

ABSTRACT: This article highlights findings from a recent critical narrative study comparing the experiences of children of war and children exposed to domestic violence. The sample consisted of 15 children of war and 16 children of battered women, ages 10-17. Although both groups of children reported similar symptoms of trauma, such as loneliness, problems eating and sleeping, headaches and intrusive thoughts and fears, their perceptions of their experiences were significantly different. The children of war had fond memories of their life before the war and viewed the war as a temporary situation. The children who witnessed domestic violence often were unable to identify periods of happiness and contentment in their life. Children of warwere clear that they were on the right side of a conflict between good and bad, while children exposed to spouse abuse could not take sides in their conflict. The relevance of narrative research with this population is discussed and implications for researchers and clinicians are presented. 55 references. (Author abstract modified)

KEY TERMS: research methodology; child witnesses of family violence; trauma; community violence; child abuse research; qualitative research; posttraumatic stress disorder; sequelae

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

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

TITLE: Evaluation of the London (Ontario) Community Group Treatment Programme for Children Who Have Witnessed Woman Abuse.

AUTHOR: Suderman, M.; Marshall, L.; Loosely, S.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment and Trauma

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Thames Valle District School Board, London, ON (Canada).

SOURCE: 3(1): pp. 127-146; Haworth Press, Inc., Binghamton, NY., 2000; p. 254

ABSTRACT: This article describes a community group model of intervention for children exposed to woman abuse, and an evaluation approach used to assess the impact of such groups. The collaborative development of the questionnaire-interview evaluation instruments for this purpose is described, and the set of instruments is presented in its entirety. The main instrument was tailored to the content of the groups and covers topics such as definitions and understanding of abuse, safety skills, beliefs and attitudes about abuse, perceived responsibility for abuse, alternatives to violence, non-violent conflict resolution strategies, and help-seeking skills. Both closed-ended and open-ended questions are employed. Separate questionnaires assess consumer (mother or caregiver and child) satisfaction and feedback. The results of a study evaluating the groups are described, which showed positive changes from pre to post intervention, as well as a high degree of satisfaction among children and mothers with regard to the groups. 17 references. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: program evaluation; child witnesses of family violence; group therapy; therapeutic effectiveness; community intervention projects; assessment; program models; canada

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

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

TITLE: The Transracial Adoption Debate in the United States.

AUTHOR: Lancaster, M. K.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Monroe County Florida Public Schools.

SOURCE: Kathy Lancaster, Key Colony Beach, FL., February 2000; p. 267

ABSTRACT: This paper applies social systems logic, theory, and concepts to an analysis of the structures and processes, problems, and prospects involved in the cross cultural adoption of minority children into dominant culture families. Argumentsfor and against transracial adoption are summarized, with an examination of the values of community-self determination, the benefits of integration, and the needs of children for permanency. Viewed in one regard, this social issue has the potential of pitting two social systems, racial-cultural preservation and child welfare (permanency), against each other. Viewed in another regard, the issue can be approached with a goal of harmony for both society and for individuals. Proponents and opponents of transracial adoption are urged to focus on their shared goal of child welfare to form partnerships and help multiracial families support the development of racial identity in minority children. The perception of conflict between the goals of these two systems (racial-cultural preservation and child welfare) is also addressed. 14 references. (Author abstract modified)

KEY TERMS: transracial adoption; social problems; sociology; racial identity; child welfare; permanency planning; policy formation; social policies

PUBLICATION TYPE: Technical Report

TITLE: Cultural Factors in Child Maltreatment and Domestic Violence in Korea.

AUTHOR: Doe, S. S.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Children and Youth Services Review

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Indiana Univ. Northwest. Div. of Social Work.

SOURCE: 22(3-4): pp. 231-236; Elsevier Science, Ltd., New York, NY., March-April 2000; p. 286

ABSTRACT: Recent laws enacted and proposed in Korea illustrate the country s growing recognition of the social problems of child maltreatment and domestic violence. However, differences in perceptions of the use of corporal punishment and intervention exist among teachers, physicians, and social workers, as well as in the general public. In Korean culture, children are taught to be obedient and to live up to adults expectations, quietly carrying out their important duties like schoolwork.In such an adult-centered culture that has largely ignored children s opinions and perceptions, corporal punishment has been accepted as a disciplinary action often employed by parents and teachers. Until recently, little public attention has been paid to children at risk of being abused in the name of disciplining. Empirical studies conducted in the 1990s found that physical punishment is prevalent, with boys and younger children most likely to be disciplined. Social workers and physicians are more likely than teachers to perceive corporal punishment as child maltreatment and to support government intervention. Similarly, traditional patriarchal values also contributed to domestic violence, as husbands imposed the hierarchical order in the family. One study found that as many as 30 percent of couples interviewed had experienced some form of violence in the previous year. Coverage by the media and advocacy by various civic and non-profit organizations has prompted the establishment of a national level public policy for preventing child abuse and domestic violence. 6 references. (Author abstract modified)

KEY TERMS: child abuse research; spouse abuse; asia; cultural factors; cultural values; corporal punishment; social problems; public awareness

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: The Dangerousness of Parents Who Have Abnormal Illness Behaviour.

AUTHOR: Eminson, M.; Atkin, B. L.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Abuse Review

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Royal Bolton Hospital, Farnworth (United Kingdom).

SOURCE: 9(1): pp. 68-73; John Wiley and Sons, Inc., New York, NY., January-February 2000; p. 315

ABSTRACT: Parental abnormal illness behavior can affect children in many ways, developmentally, physically, and psychologically. The most direct effect is the likelihood that parents with abnormal illness behavior will inflict their children withfactitious disorders or Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy. In addition, parents who believe they are seriously ill spend a great deal of time in the hospital, at doctor s appointments, and in bed, making themselves emotionally and physically unavailable to their children. Children may stay home from school to care for their parent, and be placed at risk for academic and social delays. The extent of the direct and indirect effects of parental abnormal illness behavior may depend on the severity of the behavior, as well as the parent s own history of childhood abuse and neglect. Pediatricians and other professionals who work with children should be aware of the symptoms of abnormal illness behavior and consider protective factors in any assessment of the family. Future research should examine how parents with abnormal illness behavior perceive their child s health and the effects of the behavior on the health and development of the child. 12 references.

KEY TERMS: munchausen syndrome by proxy; sequelae; child development; mental disorders; definitions; research needs; risk factors; clinical intervention

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

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

TITLE: The Epidemic of Rape and Child Sexual Abuse in the United States.

AUTHOR: Russell, D. E. H.; Bolen, R. M.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Mills Coll., Oakland, CA.

SOURCE: Sage Publications, Inc., Thousand Oaks, CA., June 2000; p. 342

ABSTRACT: This book evaluates 14 government- and privately-funded studies, including the authors', to address the perceived wide variation in prevalence rates of rape and child sexual abuse in the United States. It takes into consideration the various definitions the studies have used for rape and sexual abuse, as well as methodologies for collecting data. In particular, the book addresses sexual victimization statistics compiled by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Justice Statistics, which the authors assert have historically reported low incidence rates. A major goal of the evaluation was to address widely publicized backlash criticism, from anti-femnists and others, claiming that high sexual assault rates have been; greatly exaggerated. Results validate the authors' premise that the FBI's and the BJS's methodologies are inferior, and that the scope of the problems of rape and child sexual abuse have reached epidemic levels. The authors offer recommendations for further addressing the issues. Twenty tables; 13 figures; two appendixes; index; numerous references.

KEY TERMS: rape; sexual abuse; laws; research; surveys; government role; statistics; data analysis

PUBLICATION TYPE: Book

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

TITLE: The Abused Child as Parent: The Structure and Content of Physically Abused Mothers' Perceptions of Their Babies.

AUTHOR: Gara, M. A.; Allen, L. A.; Herzog, E. P.; Woolfolk, R. L.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Abuse and Neglect

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: New Jersey Univ. of Medicine and Dentistry, Piscataway. Dept. of Psychiatry.

SOURCE: 24(5): pp. 627-639; Elsevier Science Ltd., New York, NY., May 2000; p. 355

ABSTRACT: Does a mother's history of being physically abused as a child have a discernable impact on the structure and content of her perceptions and beliefs concerning her own child? This study attempted to provide an empirical answer. The studycontacted 185 as potential participants in the longitudinal study; 103 agreed to participate. They were classified as abused' or not-abused' based on their responses to a standard questionnaire. The methodology involved free-response memories and current description of babies, self, and significant others such as parents, when their babies were six months, one year, and two years old. The two groups were compared with respect to the age of baby, race, and socioeconomic status. Results showed thatabused mothers were found to differ significantly from control mothers in the structure and content of their free-response perceptions of their own babies. Specifically, abused mothers lagged behind controls in how well differentiated were their negative perceptions of their babies. Conversely, abused mothers were comparable to controls with respect to differentiation of positive perceptions of babies. The authors assert that the findings constitute a discovery about the structural organization of social cognition in mothers at risk for child abuse. Five figures; 27 references. (Author abstract modified.)

KEY TERMS: child abuse history; abusive parents; children at risk; longitudinal studies; perceptions; data collection; data analysis; social cognition

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: The Relationship of Social Support to Physically Abused Children's Adjustment.

AUTHOR: Ezzell, C. E.; Swenson, C. C.; Brondino, M. J.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Abuse and Neglect

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Medical Univ. of South Carolina, Charleston. Dept. of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.

SOURCE: 24(5): pp. 641-651; Elsevier Science Ltd., New York, NY., May 2000; p. 356

ABSTRACT: With a growing body of research linking increased levels of social support with reduced adjustment difficulties in children experiencing chronic stressors, this study used data from a sample of physically abused children and their primary caretakers to address fundamental questions regarding the relationship between social support and child adjustment. Specifically, the study had three goals: to assess physically abused children's perceptions of teacher, peer, and family support; to determine whether the levels of perceived support differ according to the person's social role; and to assess which sources of social support show stronger associations with adjustment in a physically abused sample. Participants included 37 Medicaid-eligible physically abused children and their self-identified primary parent or caregiver. Methodology included a shortened version of the Survey of Children's Social Support, and answers were indexed by child and parent reports of child depression, anxiety, and anger. Results showed that children reported receiving a high level of support from all three sources, with families rated as providing significantly greater levels of support than teachers, while family and peer, and teacher andpeer support levels did not differ significantly. In regression analyses, perceived peer support was significantly negatively related to children's and parent's reports of children's depression and anxiety. Perceived family support was significantly negatively associated with child-reported depression. Results suggest that peer and family support are particularly important for physically abused children's psychological functioning, particularly for internalizing problems. Thirty-two references. (Author abstract modified.)

KEY TERMS: child abuse; perceptions; support systems; family relationships; adjustment problems; research; data analysis; therapists role

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: Treating Secondary Victims: Intervention With the Non-Offending Mother in the Incest Family.

AUTHOR: Strand, V. C.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Fordham Univ., Tarrytown, NY. Graduate School of Social Service.

SOURCE: Sage Publications, Inc., Thousand Oaks, CA., July 2000; p. 378

ABSTRACT: The nonabusive mother of incest victims has unique psychological needs for her own recovery from the trauma of the abuse and its effects on her perception of self and her role as wife, sexual partner, worker, and mother. This book describes the mother as a secondary victim and examines the influence of race, class, work history, and individual and family history on her response to the sexual abuse of her child. The chapters review countertransference issues, the impact of professional training, and social attitudes about the fault of the mother. A conceptual framework for evaluation and treatment is also presented, supported by numerous case studies. Phases of the treatment model include engagement and assessment, early intervention in response to traumatic effects, coping capacities, surfacing traumatic effects of the incest, identification of relational consequences, and resolution. Strategies for individual, group, and family treatment, and case coordination are explained. The book also examines issues regarding custody and visitation disputes and highlights future directions for research. Numerous references.

KEY TERMS: intervention strategies; clinical intervention; nonabusive parents; mothers of abuse victims; incest; therapeutic intervention; program models; cultural factors

PUBLICATION TYPE: Book

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

TITLE: Childhood Experiences of Domestic Violence.

AUTHOR: McGee, C.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, London (United Kingdom). Child Protection Research Group.

SOURCE: Jessica Kingsley Publishers, London (United Kingdom)., 2000; p. 405

ABSTRACT: Fifty-four children and their mothers were interviewed for a study about the best ways to support children who have witnessed domestic violence, the perceptions of children and their mothers about support services, and the typical +; sources of support sought by families. Study participants were asked about the forms of domestic violence and child abuse they experienced, triggers of violence, characteristics of abusers, and the effects of witnessing violence on the child's identity, +; health, education, friendships, and relationships with family members. This book summarizes the findings of the study and identifies methods of coping and barriers to assistance for the women and children. The responses of social service agencies, law +; enforcement, schools, courts, and health professionals to the needs of children affected by domestic violence are also reviewed and assessed. The final chapter outlines recommendations for raising public awareness of domestic violence, legal protection, +; professional training, support services, and the protection of children during contact with the abuser. Numerous references, 1 figure, and 1 table.

KEY TERMS: child witnesses of family violence; spouse abuse; service delivery; intervention strategies; policy formation; battered women; child protection; sequelae

PUBLICATION TYPE: Book

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

TITLE: An Analysis of Rank Effects on Child Maltreatment in the United States Army: 1983-1985.

AUTHOR: Soma, D. J.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

SOURCE: In: Mercier, P. J. and Mercier, J. D. (Editors). Battle Cries on the Home Front: Violence in the Military Family. Charles C. Thomas Publisher, Ltd., Springfield, IL., 2000; p. 430

ABSTRACT: Data from surveys conducted by the United States Army were analyzed to determine whether neglect and serious child abuse-related injuries were more common in the junior enlisted grades. Overall, the Army child maltreatment rate was 7.5 per 1,000 children, 4 points lower than the national rate for 0-17 year olds. However, maltreatment rates for younger children were comparable to the national rate. An association was found between the rank of a parent and the rate of maltreatment. Excluding maltreatment rates for E-1s and E-2s because those individuals are in training, maltreatment was more common among E-3s than E-7s. The maltreatment rate decreased steadily as rank increased. The rate also declined with child age. Children age 0-2 years old were almost twice as likely to be abused or neglected as 3-5 years olds and more than three times as likely as 6-11 year olds. The risk of maltreatment is also higher for male children than females. Possible explanations for these trends include the greater social acceptability of physically disciplining boys, the income differences between ranks, social isolation and difficult living conditions, family instability related to mobility, lack of support for the family, and perceptions of low status and control over the environment. Based on these findings, prevention programs should target the families of E-3s through E-5s. 29 references and 9 tables.

KEY TERMS: statistical data; incidence; child abuse research; armed forces; military personnel; characteristics of abuser; characteristics of abused; predictor variables

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

TITLE: Judgements About Parenting: What Do Social Workers Think They Are Doing?

AUTHOR: Daniel, B.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Abuse Review

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Dundee Univ., (Scotland). Center for Child Care and Protection Studies.

SOURCE: 9(2): pp. 91-107; John Wiley and Sons, Ltd., Chichester, West Sussex (United Kingdom)., 2000; p. 449

ABSTRACT: Scottish social workers' beliefs about the elements of parenting that ensure a child's well-being and their perceptions about what underpins their decision-making about child care and protection were examined in this study. Q methodology revealed eight different strands of opinion, three of which are discussed in the article: that physical milestones are easier to assess than emotional needs; that children can be happy, even in less than ideal environments; and that positive attachment to the caregiver is the most important characteristic of adequate parenting. The discussion indicates that there is broad consistency of opinion within factors. That is, there is a link between views about children's needs and decision-making.However, the different factors also demonstrate that there are clusters of significantly different opinions about priorities in assessing parenting. 28 references and 2 tables. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: scotland; social workers attitudes; social workers role; decision making; values; cultural conflicts; parental adequacy; parenting

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

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

TITLE: Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Theoretical, Empirical and Clinical Perspectives.

AUTHOR: Hayslip, B. (Editor); Goldberg-Glen, R. (Editor)

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: University of North Texas, Denton. Dept. of Psychology.

SOURCE: Springer Publishing Co., Inc., New York, NY., August 2000; p. 483

ABSTRACT: An increasing number of grandparents are being given custody of their grandchildren as nuclear family structures change with divorce, teenage childbirth, or conditions that prevent parents from caring for their children. Written for alltypes of professionals who work with families, this book reviews the research regarding grandparents raising grandchildren and describes the clinical and policy implications of the phenomenon. Section One focuses on theoretical and historical perspectives of custodial grandparenting with chapters that examine the demographic characteristics of grandparent caregivers, the influence of grandparents on their grandchildren, and the communication of beliefs and cultural from one generation to another. The second section explores the different ways in which grandparents care for their grandchildren. Topics include the emotional well-being of grandparents caring for children whose parents have HIV, cross-cultural differences in custodial grandparenting, and the differences between primary and secondary caregiving. Section Three addresses clinical perspectives, such as the physical and mental health of the grandparents, depression among grandparent caregivers, school-based interventions for children, perceptions of problem behavior, and support groups. The final section reviews service delivery and public policy issues. Grandparent education, legal issues, the role of organizational advocacy, and the needs of low-income grandparent caregivers are specifically discussed. Numerous references, 2 figures, and 31 tables.

KEY TERMS: kinship care; grandparents; historical perspective; child custody; family problems; parental stress; service delivery; public policy

PUBLICATION TYPE: Book

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

TITLE: Managing Risk in Child Welfare.

AUTHOR: Herman, M. L.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Children's Voice

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Nonprofit Risk Management Center, Washington, DC.

SOURCE: 9(4): pp. 24-29; Child Welfare League of America, Washington, DC., July 2000; p. 490

ABSTRACT: Nonprofit management experts have recognized the need for organizations to be visionary and strategic. But many nonprofit agencies have difficulty focusing on vision when a major focus involves raising money, diversifying their funding,and staying competitive with employee benefits. The author advocates the need for a more formal role of risk management in agencies as a means of anticipating, preparing for, and dealing with the unexpected. Barriers to risk management strategies in nonprofit agencies are outlined, discussing perceptions of complexity, lack of appeal, and inordinate use of resources. Risk management frameworks are discussed, with emphasis on a simple framework that focuses on three fundamental questions: 1. What cango wrong? 2. What will the agency do, either when something goes wrong or to prevent things from going wrong in the first place? 3. How will the agency pay for prevention efforts or for damages that occur despite the agency s best efforts? These effortsalso require periodic examination and evaluation. The author emphasizes that taking on risk management does not mean becoming a wet blanket, but rather taking an approach to solving problems that creates an environment in which an organization takes on more risk, not less.

KEY TERMS: child welfare; risk management; service delivery; evaluations; risk factors; agencies; barriers; funding

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

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

TITLE: African American Kin Caregivers and Child Welfare Issues: Research Implications.

AUTHOR: Hill, R. B.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Westat, Inc., Rockville, MD.

SOURCE: In: Barth, R. P.; Freundlich, M.; and Brodzinsky, D. (Editors). Adoption and Prenatal Alcohol and Drug Exposure: Research, Policy, and Practice. Child Welfare League of America,, 2000; p. 514

ABSTRACT: Longitudinal studies about the outcomes of kinship care among African American families should focus on the four primary care arrangements: informal adoption; kinship care; relative foster care; and relative adoptions. Current research has considered the cultural tradition of kinship care in African American families, the characteristics of children and their kin caregivers, reasons for kinship parenting, the impact of kinship care on child abuse and neglect, duration of placements, financial support provided to kinship families, service needs, and perceptions of family preservation. However, there are several issues that require more in-depth study, such as the need for preparation and support services from child welfare agencies; the types of support networks used by kinship providers caring for children placed independently from child welfare agencies; the protective factors that prevent placement in the public foster care system; barriers to public support and assistance to kinship caregivers; and factors that promote formal adoption by kinship care providers. 37 references.

KEY TERMS: kinship care; african americans; drug exposed children; prenatal drug exposure; outcomes; research needs; family characteristics; adoption research

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

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

TITLE: The Strengths of Black Families: Appropriate Placements for All.

AUTHOR: Rashid, S. P.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Adoption and Fostering

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Open Univ., Milton Keynes (United Kingdom).

SOURCE: 24(1): pp. 15-22; British Agencies for Adoption and Fostering, London (England)., Spring 2000; p. 523

ABSTRACT: The strengths which black families bring to foster care have rarely been explored in detail in British social work research literature. This article summarizes the results of a study on the permanent placement of black children in +; foster care. The author reports on black foster caretakers and identifies their strengths in helping the children in their care to settle in their new families, deal with the issues of racism and identity and retain contact with their birth families. A +; survey was undertaken of 1,165 children with special needs who were placed in permanent care by major adoption agencies in the United Kingdom between 1980 and 1984. Researchers identified 246 children of minority background, of which qualitative work was+; undertaken with 38 families. The experiences of six families are described in this study. These families demonstrate considerable strengths in providing care for black children with a variety of needs and have met with a high degree of success. The +; author says their accounts are important because they provide examples of good practice, resourcefulness, skill, and determination, and dispel perceptions that black families and black communities are unable to provide appropriate placements for black +; children. Twelve references.

KEY TERMS: foster care; placement; permanency; caretakers; racial identity; united kingdom; transracial adoption; support groups

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

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

TITLE: Societal Attitudes Toward Drug-Using Women and Their Children: Past and Present.

AUTHOR: Kandall, S. R.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

ABSTRACT: Current societal concern about drug addiction can be traced to the late 1800's when the demographics of substance abuse shifted from wealthy, white, southern women to poor, urban, minorities. Historically, women became addicted to opiumand other drugs when they were prescribed by their physicians and pharmacists. Opium-addicted women were pitied, rather than viewed as a threat to society. However, increasing drug use by minority populations was labeled social deviance and most states prohibited the use of cocaine and opiates by 1912. Early treatment programs were opposed by the federal narcotics agency because they were inconsistent with punitive policies. The needs of addicted women were overlooked until the 1970s, when the Women's Movement and the National Institute on Drug Abuse promoted the establishment of therapeutic programs targeted to pregnant women. However, the social policies of the Reagan administration continued to fuel an attitude of anger and suspicion against poor, minority women and funding for law enforcement exceeded allocations for prevention and treatment. Criminal laws were also used to convict pregnant, drug-addicted women of prenatal child abuse. Increases in the incidence of drug-exposed infants, child maltreatment, and other medical conditions associated with prenatal drug exposure added to society's negative perception of addicted women. Political trends indicate that funding for treatment programs for poor minority women will remain limited. 81 references.

KEY TERMS: social attitudes; social values; public opinion; substance abusing mothers; historical perspective; social problems; prenatal drug exposure; intervention strategies

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

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

TITLE: Workplace Violence: Perceptions and Experiences of Local Public Assistance and Child Support Enforcement Staff and Managers.

INST. AUTHOR: Office of Inspector General (DHHS), Washington, DC. Office Evalulation and Inspections.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

SOURCE: Office of Inspector General (DHHS), Washington, DC. Office of Evaluation and Inspections., March 2000; p. 534

ABSTRACT: The Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services submitted this final report on worker safety. The report summarizes information the department gathered about workplace violence from local welfare +; and child support enforcement staff. Interestingly, worker safety was not the original objective of the collection of data; instead the topic was raised during a pre-inspection process as the department gathered information about how local offices deal +; with clients who might experience spouse abuse. Staff from 99 local child support offices and 103 local welfare offices in California, Georgia, Illinois, New Jersey, Texas, and Virginia provided information. Seventy-eight percent of local child support +; enforcement and 61 percent of local welfare managers reported that they have had reason to fear for the safety of workers in their office. However, they also reported that the actual incidences of violence in their offices have been rare. Staff reported +; that the nature of their work often contributes to stress levels of the individuals they serve, potentially leading to threats of violence or actual violence. Conclusions suggest that while local office safety is primarily the responsibility of the +; states, the federal Administration for Children and Families should discuss the extent and severity of worker safety with its state partners with a view to promoting the development and sharing of strategies that effectively address the issue. One +; appendix.

KEY TERMS: us department of health and human services; data analysis; worker safety; spouse abuse; child welfare workers; child support; prevention; welfare

PUBLICATION TYPE: Final Report

INTERNET URL: http://www.hhs.gov/oig/oei/

TITLE: Parent Prevails Over Grandparents on Child Visitation.

AUTHOR: Kim, K.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Youth Law News

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: National Center for Youth Law, Oakland, CA.

SOURCE: 21(2-3): pp. 11-14; National Center for Youth Law, Oakland, CA., March/June 2000; p. 553

ABSTRACT: This article describes a legal decision known as the grandparents' rights case, which went to the U.S. Supreme Court in 2000. The author describes the decision in a larger context, not just for grandparents' rights but for other groups wishing preserve established relationships with children. The case, Troxel v. Granville, resulted from a complaint by Gary and Jennifer Troxel, a couple in Anacortes, Washington, whose son was the unmarried father of two young daughters. The Troxels had an ongoing relationship with their granddaughters, but when their son committed suicide, the Troxels were unable to agree on continued visitation with the girls' mother. The Troxels filed a petition for visitation in state court, which agreed with them and ordered visitation rights. The mother and her new husband appealed, and the case eventually went to the U.S. Supreme Court. The court, in a plurality decision, asserted that parents, not judges or grandparents, have the fundamental right to decide what is best for their children. The case has been perceived primarily as a test of grandparents' rights, and was heralded in the media as a huge setback. But the author maintains that the door remains open for grandparents to seek visitation privileges,and outcomes will still largely depend on the facts of each case. Essentially, the Troxel decision leaves it to states to balance constitutional rights with the realities of changing families. Twenty-one notes.

KEY TERMS: grandparents rights; visitation; u s supreme court; state supreme courts; child advocacy; kinship care; constitutional challenges; families

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: Grandparent Caregivers' Perception of the Stress of Surrogate Parenting.

AUTHOR: Sands, R. G.; Goldberg-Glen, R. S.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Journal of Social Service Research

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Pennsylvania Univ., Phildelphia. School of Social Work.

SOURCE: 26(3): pp. 77-95; Haworth Press, Inc., Binghamton, NY., 2000; p. 558

ABSTRACT: This paper examined the relationship between sociodemographic factors, stressors, and resources, and the perception of stress by grandparents caring for their grandchildren. A sample of 129 grandparents had face-to-face interviews. A +; hierarchical block regression analysis produced a model that accounted for 49 percent of the variance. For the first block (sociodemographic factors) younger age and being white were significant, but in the context of the second block, these variables +; disappeared and being employed, having conflict with the children's parent, and grandchild problems were significant. The final block, in which resources were added, found that being employed, having conflict with the children's parent, grandchild +; problems, and lack of family resources were associated with high perception of stress. These findings suggest strategies for social work intervention. 37 references and 3 tables. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: grandparents; kinship care; parental stress; family characteristics; child welfare research; parental surrogates; stress; demography

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

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

TITLE: Predictors of Treatment Outcome in Sexually Abused Children.

AUTHOR: Cohen, J. A.; Mannarino, A. P.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Abuse and Neglect

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Hahnemann Univ. School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA. Dept. of Psychiatry.

SOURCE: 24(7): pp. 983-994; Elsevier Science Ltd., New York, NY., July 2000; p. 575

ABSTRACT: This NCCAN-funded study evaluated the impact of child and family characteristics on treatment outcome for sexually abused children. Forty-nine recently sexually abused 7- to 14-year old children were randomly assigned to either +; abuse-focused cognitive behavioral therapy or nondirective supportive therapy, and assessed pre- and post-treatment using several standardized instruments. These included five measures of psychological symptomatology and four measures of child and family+; characteristics hypothesized to mediate treatment response. Correlational and multiple regression analyses were utilized to evaluate the impact of the following mediating factors on treatment outcome: children's abuse-related attributions and +; perceptions; family cohesion and adaptability; parental support of the child; and parental emotional reaction to the child's abuse. Children's abuse-related attributions and perceptions and parental support of the child were strong predictors of +; treatment outcome in this population. Therapeutic attention to children's sexual abuse-related attributions and to enhancing parental support may be important factors in optimizing treatment outcome in 8- to-14-year old sexually abused children. 26 +; references and 3 tables. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: predictor variables; sexual abuse; therapeutic effectiveness; outcomes; childrens therapy; characteristics of abused; family characteristics; parental reactions

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: Perceptions of Grandparents' Influence in the Lives of Their Grandchildren.

AUTHOR: Hayslip, B.; Shore, R. J.; Henderson, C. E.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: University of North Texas, Denton. Dept. of Psychology.

SOURCE: In: Hayslip, B.; Goldberg-Glen, R. (Editors). Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Theoretical, Empirical and Clinical Perspectives. Springer Publishing Co., Inc., New York, NY., 2000; p. 615

ABSTRACT: One hundred, eighty-one adolescents and young adults were surveyed for this study about the extent that their grandparents were involved in their lives and the level of their influence. Measures assessed the amount of regular contact, the level of care given by the grandparent, direct and positive influence on vocational and educational choices, problem solving, values, and the degree of influence on the entire family. Data were analyzed by gender and age of the grandchild (14-18 years and 19-24 years), and by grandparent gender and kinship position. The findings indicated that grandparents had greater breadth of influence and were more involved in the lives of male grandchildren than female grandchildren. Females, and to some extent, males perceived their grandmothers to be more parental, more involved in their up-bringing, and more influential on their lives and families than grandfathers. Males of all ages reported that their grandparents influenced family decisions, helpedto resolve conflict, and had an impact on how the child was raised. The findings support the results of other research that revealed that grandchildren had more positive interactions with their grandparents before they were placed in their custody. 26 references and 2 tables.

KEY TERMS: grandparents; kinship care; parental role; parent child relationships; parenting; interpersonal relationships; child welfare research; sequelae

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

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

TITLE: Primary and Secondary Caregiving Grandparents: How Different Are They?

AUTHOR: Goldberg-Glen, R. S.; Sands, R. G.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Widener Univ., Chester, PA. Center for Social Work Education.

ABSTRACT: Thirty-three pairs of custodial grandparents were surveyed for this study of the differences in stress and well-being between the primary caregiver and the secondary caregiver. Almost all of the pairs consisted of married couples, and 85 percent of the primary caregivers were women. The measures addressed stress, life satisfaction, well-being, and resources. Secondary caregivers reported higher levels of stress than the primary caregivers and had significantly fewer resources and lower financial stability than the primary caregivers. No differences were found on measures of family cohesion, emotional control, perceived stress, well-being, psychological anxiety, or life satisfaction. Future research should be conducted with a larger sample, and examine the role of the secondary caregiver in the family and the impact of the secondary caregiver's health on primary caregiver and the grandchild. Research should also compare outcomes for children raised by single grandparents and those raised with two caregivers. Implications for practice are highlighted in the chapter. 48 references and 5 tables.

KEY TERMS: kinship care; grandparents; parental behavior; individual characteristics; parental role; demography; parental stress; child welfare research

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

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

TITLE: Determinants of Custodial Grandparents' Perceptions of Problem Behavior in Their Grandchildren.

AUTHOR: Hayslip, B.; Silverthorn, P.; Shore, R. J.; Henderson, C. E.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: University of North Texas, Denton. Dept. of Psychology.

ABSTRACT: This study was conducted to identify predictors of grandparent perceptions of behavior problems in their grandchildren. The sample of 101 custodial grandparents was asked about the situation that led to their raising their grandchildren, motives for caring for the child, social support, professional help requested, and the existence of nine different behavior problems in their grandchild. Analyses of the responses indicated a strong relationship between seeking help for the grandchild and the perceived severity of behavior problems presented by the child. Behaviors that resulted in problems in the school and the community received especially severe ratings. In addition, problem severity correlated with the health of thegrandparents. Grandparents who reported high levels of problem severity also reported poor health. Requesting assistance for oneself was not related to problem severity. Grandparents who desired to have another chance to parent a child were more likely to report drug and alcohol abuse problems and overall problem severity in their grandchildren. 24 references and 2 tables.

KEY TERMS: kinship care; grandparents; child behavior; behavior problems; parental attitudes; predictor variables; family characteristics; child welfare research

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

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

TITLE: Success-Based, Noncoercive Treatment of Oppositional Behavior in Children From Violent Homes.

AUTHOR: Ducharme, J. M.; Atkinson, L.; Poulton, L.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Toronto Univ., ON (Canada). Dept. of Human Development and Applied Psychology.

SOURCE: 39(8): pp. 995-1003; Lippincott Williams and Wilkins, Hagerstown, MD., August 2000; p. 661

ABSTRACT: Errorless compliance training is a success-based, noncoercive intervention for children with severe oppositional behavior. The strategy involves hierarchical introduction of more demanding parental requests at a gradual pace that greatly reduces noncompliance and obviates the need for constraining consequences, such as time-out. This study evaluated that approach as a treatment for severe disciplinary programs in children from violent homes. Participants were 15 children, aged 3-10 years old and their mothers. All participants had experienced long-term family violence. Using a multiple-baseline design, the researchers trained parents in a group format and conducted observations of child compliance in the home throughout the intervention. Observations indicated improvements in generalized child compliance that were maintained up to 6 months posttreatment. Pre- and post-maternal reports indicated significant reductions in maternal perception of child noncompliance, externalizing and internalizing programs, and parenting stress. Researchers have noted a dearth of empirically supported interventions for children from violent homes. Errorless compliance training may help to fill this void, as it appears well suited tothe treatment of difficulties encountered by these youngsters and their parents. 27 references, 2 figures, and 1 table. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: childrens therapy; child witnesses of family violence; child behavior; behavior problems; oppositional defiant disorder; program evaluation; intervention strategies; parent

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: Child Psychological Maltreatment in Palestinian Families.

AUTHOR: Khamis, V.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Abuse and Neglect

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Bethlehem Univ., West Bank (Palestine). Dept. of Social Sciences.

SOURCE: 24(8): pp. 1047-1059; Elsevier Science Inc., New York, NY., 2000; p. 795

ABSTRACT: This study was designed to identify predictors of child psychological abuse in Palestinian families. It examined the relative contributions of child characteristics, parents' sociodemographics, and economic hardships, family characteristics such as family values, family ambiance, gender inequities, parental support, harsh discipline, psychological abuse, and other forms of abuse. The sample consisted of 1,000 school age children from 12 to 16 years. Two school counselors interviewed the children at school, and with the available parent at home. Results showed that child school performance was specifically associated with child psychological abuse. Parents who perceived that the family did not have enough money to meet the child's needs were more likely to abuse their children psychologically. Gender inequities, harsh discipline, family ambiance, and lack of parental support were the most salient predictors of abuse. Child psychological abuse occurred concurrently withother forms of abuse such as physical abuse and child labor. Parental psychological abuse proved to be weakened with high traditional family values. Conclusions suggested that a significant portion of the sample could be considered psychologically abused. The authors recommend that intervention and prevention efforts should be focused on child welfare, educational programs for high-risk parents, and mobilization of the community and social services agencies. Two tables; numerous references. (Author abstract modified.)

KEY TERMS: child abuse; middle eastern cultures; family; psychological abuse; socialization; questionnaires; data analysis; predictor variables

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: Factors Related to Mothers' Perceptions of Parenting Following Their Children's Disclosures of Sexual Abuse.

AUTHOR: Hiebert-Murphy, D.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Maltreatment

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Manitoba Univ., Winnipeg (Canada).

SOURCE: 5(3): pp. 251-260; Sage Publications, Inc., Thousand Oaks, CA., August 2000; p. 801

ABSTRACT: The purpose of this study was to examine factors related to parenting satisfaction and efficacy in non-offending mothers. Parenting satisfaction and efficacy was of particular interest, given previous findings suggesting that satisfaction and efficacy are associated with child behavior and parental functioning. The study was based on a stress-coping model in which the relationship between a sexual abuse disclosure by a child and the mother's parenting satisfaction and efficacy was expected to be affected by risk factors as well as stress-resistance factors. Two main questions were considered in the study: 1. Do risk factors and stress-resistance factors predict parenting satisfaction and efficacy among mothers whose children have disclosed sexual abuse? and 2. Do the hypothesized stress-resistance factors predict parenting satisfaction and efficacy after controlling the risk factors as predicted by a stress-coping model? Participants were 102 women recruited througha sexual assault clinic at a children's hospital and a community-based service for families affected by third-party sexual abuse. Findings suggest that understanding the parenting satisfaction of mothers following a disclosure of sexual abuse requires consideration of at least several factors. Abuse characteristics and demographic variables do not seem central to predicting satisfaction; rather, attention must be given to the behavior of the child and to social and personal resources the women can usein dealing with the situation. The author suggests that more research is needed to understand the relationship between social support and coping strategies and parenting efficacy among mothers of children who have been sexually abused. Three tables; numerous references.

KEY TERMS: sexual abuse; parenting skills; disclosure; mother child relationships; behavior problems; coping skills; data collection; data analysis

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

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

TITLE: The Kempe Family Stress Inventory: A Review.

AUTHOR: Korfmacher, J.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Abuse and Neglect

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

SOURCE: 24(1): pp. 129-140; Elsevier Science Ltd., New York, NY., January 2000

ABSTRACT: This article reviews research about the validity of the Kempe Family Stress Inventory (KFSI), a 10-item scale that measures risk for parenting difficulties based upon responses to a thorough psychosocial interview. Research and documentation regarding the assessment instrument were gathered from journals, book chapters, presentations, workshops, and intervention evaluation reports. The KFSI has been used to predict parents' future risk of maltreating their children. The scale covers a variety of domains, including psychiatric history, criminal and substance abuse history, childhood history of care, emotional functioning, attitudes towards and perception of child, discipline of child, and level of stress in the parent's life. Although construct validity has been demonstrated with the KFSI, questions remain about its specificity and sensitivity. In addition, there has been minimal reliability and work done on the measure. It is concluded that the KFSI may have clinical utility, but should be used as part of a more comprehensive risk assessment that includes multiple measures. Acceptable accuracy in predicting child abuse and neglect when used by itself has not been demonstrated. There is a need for more demonstration of reliability and validity. Suggestions for future research are noted. 21 references and 2 tables. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: assessment; measures; parental stress; parental behavior; validity; adults abused as children; substance abuse; mental health

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: Client Evaluation of a Consultation Team on Crimes Against Children.

AUTHOR: Bross, D. C.; Ballo, N.; Korfmacher, J.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Abuse and Neglect

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Colorado Univ. School of Medicine, Denver. Dept. of Pediatrics.

SOURCE: 24(1): pp. 71-84; Elsevier Science Ltd., New York, NY., January 2000

ABSTRACT: Cases of child abuse filed in court as crimes against children represent a small percentage of the total number of children maltreated. However, studying child maltreatment crimes is important to assure that these cases are managed well. Forensic consultation teams can perform several functions related to child abuse crimes: provide multidisciplinary expertise in the evaluation of maltreatment cases; offer a method for allocating resources between cases managed by the criminal justice and child protection systems; and provide important research and teaching opportunities. This study reviews the role played by multidisciplinary team consultations based on the perception of client professionals whose agencies pay for an outside consulting forensic team. Professionals referring to a forensic team for consultative assistance were asked to evaluate the service during telephone interviews, responding to both structured and unstructured questions. Eighteen responding professionals stated that the team increased their confidence that the approach being taken to a case was correct (94 percent), that missing expertise was provided (100 percent), that progress was made in cases that might otherwise not have been made (55 percent), and that ambiguity was reduced (in 83 percent of referred cases). Using the team sometimes caused delays. Some delays were unacceptable administrative delays while others were considered necessary to assure completeness of the evaluation. The use of the team did not result in resolution of all the cases referred, but referral to the team consistently provided closure for referring professionals. In one-third of the cases studied, if it had not been for the State and Regional Team (START) consultation, the cases would not have proceeded to an appropriate criminal or civil resolution. 3 tables and numerous references. (Author abstract modified)

KEY TERMS: evaluation; multidisciplinary teams; criminal charges; criminal justice system; child protective services; consultation; interviews

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: Enhancing Law Enforcement Identification and Investigation of Child Maltreatment.

AUTHOR: Portwood, S. G.; Grady, M. T.; Dutton, S. E.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Abuse and Neglect

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Missouri Univ., Kansas City.

SOURCE: 24(2): pp. 195-207; Elsevier Science Ltd, New York, NY., February 2000

ABSTRACT: Data from 2 independent studies is presented, representing the investigators' ongoing work with faculty from a state criminal justice academy to analyze existing knowledge and skills among veteran law enforcement officers and recruits, as well as to enhance future training. Through an anonymous questionnaire, the first of these studies examined officers' perceptions of maltreatment, including those factors that do and do not influence a determination of whether a particular act constitutes child maltreatment and assessments of whether particular acts constitute abuse or neglect. The second study also utilized an anonymous questionnaire to examine officers' knowledge of the developmental strengths and limitations of children relative to their ability to provide accurate information in suspected cases of child maltreatment. As hypothesized, several gaps both in law enforcement officers' knowledge of certain characteristics that can serve to denote a case of maltreatment and their knowledge of fundamental developmental issues and interview techniques that could assist them in the performance of their professional duties are identified. Suggestions for enhanced law enforcement training programs are presented and discussed. 4 tables and numerous references. (Author abstract modified)

KEY TERMS: investigations; law enforcement; questionnaires; identification; assessment; professional training

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOR AS A RESULT OF ABUSE: Selected Articles.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

SOURCE: NCCAN Annotated Bibliographies; 2000

KEY TERMS: kinship care; drug exposed infants; sequelae; child placement; outcomes; prevalence; behavior problems; child welfare research; longitudinal studies; violence; symptoms; adolescents; school surveys; ethnicity; urban environment; risk factors; physical abuse; corporal punishment; child abuse research; china; sexual behavior; child behavior; predictor variables; spouse abuse; child witnesses of family violence; child development; research methodology; data collection; measures; sexual abuse; etiology; sexually abusive children; differential diagnoses; case studies; adolescent; adults abused as children; attachment behavior; nonmarital violence; aggressive behavior; juvenile delinquency; homicide; psychological characteristics; family violence; suicide; antisocial behavior; impulsive behavior; mothers; posttraumatic stress disorder; battered women; community violence; emotional problems; child abuse history; adoption; foster care; school children; family relationships; family support systems

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: CHILD WELFARE PROFESSIONAL TRAINING: Selected Articles.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 2000

SOURCE: NCCAN Annotated Bibliographies; 2000

KEY TERMS: kinship care; professional training; child welfare workers; curricula; competency based training; assessment; intervention strategies; service delivery; social workers; social workers role; personnel needs; child protective services; child welfare services; personnel management; competency; children with disabilities; developmental disabilities; foster care; foster parents training; program models; interagency collaboration; evaluation methods; validity; testing; outcomes; longitudinal studies; program evaluation; family preservation; cultural competency; schools of social work; resource materials; child welfare research; risk factors; prevention; child welfare research; child welfare agencies; substance abuse; multidisciplinary teams; child welfare reform; pennsylvania; interdisciplinary approach; new york; social workers attitudes; caseload; staff development; florida; investigations; supervisors; foster care workers; california; measures

PUBLICATION TYPE: Annotated Bibliography

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

TITLE: A Review and Reformulation of Adoptive Relationships From an Attachment Perspective.

AUTHOR: Edens, J. F.; Cavell, T. A.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Adoption Quarterly

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Sam Houston State Univ., Huntsville, TX. Dept. of Psychology.

SOURCE: 3(2): pp. 43-69; Haworth Press, Inc., Binghamton, NY., 1999; p. 17

ABSTRACT: The authors provide a conceptualization of several unique aspects of adoptive relationships from an attachment perspective, focusing specifically on recent advances in the conceptualization and assessment of attachment status in adulthood. Noting a lack of empirical data directly examining these issues, they review existing data through the lens of attachment theory to better understand the process of establishing a relationship with an adopted child, as well as explain clinicalor individual differences seen among adopted persons in adolescence and adulthood. They limit the scope of discussion primarily to that of adoptions wherein a child is placed in early infancy with non-biological relatives and has no further contact withbiological family members. The authors describe Bowlby's attachment theory and hypothesize that attachment styles that adoptive parents bring to their relationships play a significant role in the formation and function of adoptive families. Their findings suggest that while secure caretakers can comfortably manage the parent-child relationship without being threatened by the fact of adoption, dismissing caretakers, who may encounter greater difficulty in bonding with their adopted child, may engage in coping strategies that focus, or insist upon, perceived differences between biological and adoptive relationships. They also examine attachment and adopted persons' functioning in later life, noting that while children who form attachment bondswith adopted parents that are similar to those seen in biological-related families, many questions remain unanswered as to how attachment theory plays a role in predicting the interpersonal functioning of adopted children as they move toward adolescenceand adulthood. Until more empirical work is done, the authors state that generalizations from the current body of research to specific issues involving adoptive families remains premature. Two tables, numerous references.

KEY TERMS: attachment; interpersonal relationships; literature reviews; coping skills; attachment theory; adoptive families; special needs

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

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

TITLE: Adoptive Family Adjustment and Its Relation to Perceived Family Environment.

AUTHOR: Martin, B.; Kelly, M. M.; Towner-Thyrum, E.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Adoption Quarterly

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Millersville Univ., PA. Dept. of Psyschology.

SOURCE: 3(1): pp. 49-60; Haworth Press, Inc., Binghamton, NY., 1999; p. 21

ABSTRACT: Fifty-one adopted college students from three mid-sized East Coast universities participated in interviews structured to gather information regarding adoptees' perceptions of adoptive family life. They were asked for their perspective of the overall environment that characterized their family life as well as their perceptions of how their families dealt with the tasks unique to their adoption. Additionally, subjects completed a scale that measured their perceptions of general characteristics of family environment. Multiple regression analysis revealed that of ten adoption-specific factors derived from interview data, overall satisfaction with one's adoptive status and family life was the strongest predictor of perceived general family environment. Adoptee satisfaction predicted high levels of family expressiveness, ethical focus, and involvement in shared activities as well as low levels of family conflict. Adoptees' perception of adoptive fathers' and mothers' communication styles predicted different aspects of family environment. Adoptees' acknowledgement of life differences due to their adoptive status did not relate to family expressiveness. The latter finding lends support to recent research suggesting that acknowledgement and expressiveness are independent aspects of adoptive family functioning. Three tables, 13 references. (Author abstract modified)

KEY TERMS: adoptive families; adjustment problems; family environment; data collection; data analysis; communication; surveys; adolescents

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

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

TITLE: Mental Health and Legal Professionals' Perceptions of Child Abuse.

AUTHOR: Greene, L. I.; Glenwick, D. S.; Schiaffino, K. M.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Journal of Family Social Work

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Fordham Univ., New York, NY. Dept. of Psychology.

SOURCE: 3(4): pp. 25-38; Haworth Press, Inc., Binghampton, NY., 1999; p. 229

ABSTRACT: Definitions of the physical, sexual, and psychological abuse of children were assessed in a sample of mental health and legal professionals. Forty-eight social workers and 33 attorneys rated 39 items describing various parental behaviors that were potentially abusive. The results indicated that severity ratings were highest for sexual abuse, followed by physical and emotional abuse; the social workers rated several parental behaviors as more abusive than did the attorneys; and items that included physical or emotional consequence to the child often were regarded as more abusive. Implications of the findings for research and training are considered. 11 references and 3 tables.

KEY TERMS: mental health personnel; social workers attitudes; lawyers; attitudes; parental behavior; definitions; public opinion; child abuse research

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

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

TITLE: Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder-Disorders of Extreme Stress (CP-DES) in Sexually Abused Children: An Exploratory Study.

AUTHOR: Hall, D. K.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Journal of Child Sexual Abuse

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Atkinson Coll., North York, ON (Canada). School of Nursing.

SOURCE: 8(4): pp. 51-71; Haworth Press, Inc., Binghamton, NY., 1999; p. 516

ABSTRACT: The author proposes the syndrome of Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Disorders of Extreme Stress to describe symptoms reported by adult survivors of repeated personal trauma for which post traumatic stress syndrome is +; characterized as an inadequate description. The article explores whether CP/DES characterizes the responses of sexually abused children, some of whom have sustained multiple interpersonal traumas. Three groups of sexually abused children were compared on+; seven child CP/DES indices: 1) alteration in regulation of affect/impulses; 2) alteration in regulation of attention and consciousness; 3) alteration in self-perception; 4) alteration in perception of the perpetrator; 5) alteration in relationships with+; others; 6) somatization; and 7) alteration in systems of meaning. Results indicated that children with post traumatic stress disorder exhibited more CP/DES symptoms within a greater number of CP/DES categories than did partial or non-PTSD groups. The +; relationship between cumulative trauma and total number of CP/DES symptoms revealed that as the cumulative number of types of trauma increases, the number of CP/DES symptoms rose. The results suggest that CP/DES also characterizes sexually abused +; children, especially those who have been multiply abused, and offers a more developmentally appropriate framework for assessment and treatment than PTSD. Five tables; numerous references. (Author abstract modified.)

KEY TERMS: post traumatic stress disorder; sexual abuse; child abuse; adults abused as children; multi problem children; studies; comparative analysis; pilot programs

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

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

TITLE: Videotaping Child Disclosure Interviews: Exploratory Study of Children's Experiences and

AUTHOR: Henry, J.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Journal of Child Sexual Abuse

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Western Michigan Univ., Kalamazoo. School of Social Work.

SOURCE: 8(4): pp. 35-49; Haworth Press, Inc., Binghamton, NY., 1999; p. 517

ABSTRACT: The debate over whether to videotape victims of sexual abuse has lacked resolution because to date there has only been anecdotal experience to evaluate. This research void, the author of this study asserts, perpetuates the controversy +; and may deter localities from videotaping. The study examines the effects of videotaping compared to non-videotaping on a number of disclosure interviews, its impact on the likelihood of children testifying in court, and its effect on perpetrators' +; pleading. The study compares the investigatory and legal outcomes of 29 sexually abused children in three counties in Michigan, whose disclosure interviews were videotaped, with a group of 61 non-videotaped sexually abused children. Three testing +; instruments were administered during the interviews to measure the victim's perceived level of trauma and stress produced by system interventions. The results revealed that videotaped children were more likely to have fewer interviews and testify less +; frequently than the non-videotaped group. Offenders of videotaped sexually abused children were more likely to plead to criminal charges than offenders of the non-videotaped children. Eighty-six percent of videotaped sexually abused children indicated +; that videotaping was either helpful or had no effect on them. The results provide communities with information to evaluate as they seek to further refine their protocols to support sexually abused children and minimize stress caused by system +; interventions. Two tables; one note; 16 references.

KEY TERMS: videotaping; child abuse; disclosure; feasibility studies; sex offenders; trauma; michigan; outcomes

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

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

TITLE: Brief Research Report: Age Factors Affecting the Believability of Repressed Memories of Child Sexual Assault.

AUTHOR: Golding, J. M.; Sanchez, R. P.; Sego, S. A.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Law and Human Behavior

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Kentucky Univ., Lexington. Dept. of Psychology.

SOURCE: 23(2): pp. 257-268; Kluwer Academic-Plenum Publishing, Dordrecht (The Netherlands)., April 1999; p. 562

ABSTRACT: Two experiments investigated how mock jurors react to testimony involving a claim of repressed memory in a case involving child sexual assault. Participants read a fictional civil trial summary presented in one of three conditions: +; immediate condition - the alleged victim testified immediately after the incident; repressed condition - the alleged victim reported the assault 1-39 years later, after remembering it for the first time; or not-repressed condition - the alleged victim +; reported the assault 1-39 years later, but the memory of the assault had been present for those years. When there was any type of delayed reporting, either the age of the alleged victim at the time of the assault was constant and her age at reporting +; varied (Experiment 1) or the age of the alleged victim at the time of the assault varied and her age at reporting remained constant (Experiment 2). The results showed that a delay in reporting an incident adversely affected believability of the alleged +; victim and led to fewer rulings in support of the plaintiff compared to reporting it immediately; longer delays in reporting generally led to lower alleged victim believability and fewer decisions in support of the plaintiff than shorter delays; the age +; of the alleged victim at the time of the incident was a critical variable in determining belief of the alleged victim; and men generally rated believability of the alleged victim lower and ruled in favor of the plaintiff less often than women. The +; results are discussed in terms of the psychosocial factors affecting the perception of delayed reporting in a child sexual assault trial. 21 references and 2 tables. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: age factors; sexual abuse; repression; adults abused as

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

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

TITLE: Expanding Family Options for Permanency.

AUTHOR: Peterson, J.; Cluster, C.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Colorado State Dept. of Human Services, Denver. Child Welfare Div.

SOURCE: Colorado State Dept. of Human Services, Denver. Child Welfare Div., 1999; p. 584

ABSTRACT: The goal of the Expanding Family Options for Permanency project in Colorado was to achieve permanency quickly for children by involving parents in a non-adversarial decision making process. The grant project had three major objectives: +; to develop an assessment process to identify families eligible for alternative services; to test family group decision making, voluntary relinquishment, and mediation as part of concurrent planning; and to support networks of community agencies to +; identify gaps and develop interventions. All three objectives were met through the development of protocols for decision making, a Concurrent Planning Guide, a Mediator Selection Guide, and training for judges, attorneys, and case workers. The +; effectiveness of the non-adversarial methods used depended on flexible funding; training to promote changes in the attitudes of workers; recognition of the increased role of parents; judicial support; and community resources. An evaluation of the +; training provided to workers found high levels of satisfaction with the programs, except for the Parent Empowerment Training Program. Caseworkers utilized the Concurrent Planning and Mediation Selection Guides, and one county felt that the tools were +; helpful for team meetings. The caseworkers also reported greater support from the court system for alternative decision making processes, as well as an increase in options considered for families. The project was perceived to be cost effective and family+; group decision making and Parenting Options Programs were integrated into service systems. 2 figures and 4 tables.

KEY TERMS: colorado; permanency planning; program models; program evaluation; concurrent planning; nonadversarial case resolution; family group conferencing; outcomes

PUBLICATION TYPE: Final Report

INTERNET URL: http://www.cdhs.state.co.us/cyf/cwelfare/

TITLE: The Achievement and Sustainability of Sibling Contact: Why the Reality Falls Short of the Ideal.

AUTHOR: Jones, A. M.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

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. 593

ABSTRACT: Sibling groups of children placed in foster care or adoption are often separated for one or more of the following reasons: perception of failure of family preservation services; lack of placements; limitations of the caregiver; territorial attitudes of social workers; timing; and lack of parental input. The dynamics between the family system, caregivers, and social work systems can also influence how placements are made. Although each system has its own viewpoint, eventually, one system persists and takes control, while the others accept its goals. For example, when attempts to reunify the family are unsuccessful, the role of the family social worker decreases, as the roles of the foster parent and placement worker increase to ensure a stable and safe environment for the child. However, in this interaction of shifting priorities, the parties fail to consider the importance of sibling contact when a child is removed from the home. Children who are not able to sustain contactwith their brothers and sisters suffer a significant loss that multiplies the emotional impact of the separation from their families. In addition, the separation of siblings decreases the opportunity of children to experience and work through the developmental tasks presented by sibling rivalry. 10 references.

KEY TERMS: siblings; sibling relationships; interpersonal relationships; separation; attachment; family relationships; decision making; social workers role

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

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

TITLE: A 'For Ever and Ever Family:' Siblings' Views as Represented in Reports for Adoption Hearings.

AUTHOR: Selwyn, J.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Bristol Univ. (United Kingdom). Family Policy and Child Welfare Research Centre.

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. 597

ABSTRACT: The adoption case files of 32 children from sibling groups were reviewed to examine the extent that the opinions of siblings were considered during adoption hearings. Although the British Schedule 2 report requires that the wishes and feelings of children regarding adoption and religious and cultural issues be indicated on the form, the case review revealed few direct comments from children. Social workers often used the section of the form to highlight the foster carers' perceptions,the placement history of the child, and therapeutic interventions. Even the guardians who were specifically appointed to interview children failed to accurately represent the concerns and needs expressed by the children. None of the guardians or social workers asked the children about their relationships with their siblings or their feelings about brothers and sisters still living in an abusive home. At most, general statements were made about the views of the children, and siblings were not treated asindividuals. Guardians and social workers are urged to comply with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and the British Adoption Act so that children's input can improve the decisions made about their placement. 8 references.

KEY TERMS: siblings; sibling relationships; adoption research; childs attitudes; child advocacy; guardians at litem; hearings; legal processes

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

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

TITLE: Drawing Out the Messages for Policy and Practice.

AUTHOR: Mullender, A.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Warwick Univ., Coventry (United Kingdom). Dept. of Social Work.

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. 606

ABSTRACT: The concluding chapter of a book about the placement of sibling groups summarizes the concepts presented in the text. The highlights review the definition of siblings; the prevalence of separation among foster and adopted children; quasi-sibling relationships with other children in care; contact between separated children; children's perceptions of their relationships; and the negative effects of separation. The implications of research findings for policy and practice are also outlined and recommendations for reform are provided. The chapter suggests that policymakers and social workers recognize the long-term effects of separation and emphasize the value of child-to-child relationships in practice. Records should be kept about family structures and the child's view of significant others. Agencies should also recruit more homes for the placement of sibling groups and conduct assessments on a regular basis. 5 references.

KEY TERMS: siblings; sibling relationships; separation; visitation; policy formation; public policy on adoption; great britain; adoption research

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

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

TITLE: Preventing Teenage Pregnancy: Contributions From Attachment Theory.

AUTHOR: Pistole, C. M.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Journal of Mental Health Counseling

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Rutgers, The State Univ. of New Jersey, New Brunswick. Dept. of Educational Psychology.

SOURCE: 21(2): pp. 93-113; American Mental Health Counselors Association, Alexandria, VA., April 1999; p. 663

ABSTRACT: This article examines the relevance of attachment theory for teen pregnancy prevention. Emphasis is placed on love as the confluence of the attachment, caregiving, sexual systems in a relationship, and the motivations that lead to sexual activity and pregnancy. The attachment system governs perceptions of social life and relationships, while the caregiving system addresses responsiveness and sensitivity to indications for a need for closeness or potential danger. The sexual systemfocuses primarily on reproduction and sexual pleasure. In a romantic love relationship, the three systems interact and can be confusing for an adolescent who is learning to cope with his or her emotional needs and motivations. Pregnancy prevention programs should focus on helping adolescents to recognize their needs and control their behavior. Effective interventions will identify the source of the adolescent's security that provides safety for experimental behavior and help the teen distinguish between the need for soothing and protective touch and sexual touch. The context of the family and social environment should also be considered, especially family culture and values. The article explains the role of each factor and outlines the implications for mental health counseling with teens at risk of sexual activity and pregnancy. 84 references.

KEY TERMS: adolescent pregnancy; adolescent pregnancy prevention; attachment theory; incidence; emotional development; emotional problems; emotional response; family role

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

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

TITLE: Research on Family Unity Meetings in Oregon: Report of Key Findings and the Challenges of Applying Them to a Large State Child Welfare Agency.

AUTHOR: Rodgers, A.; Rockhill, A.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Portland State Univ., OR. Child Welfare Partnership.

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. 702

ABSTRACT: Researchers from the Child Welfare Partnership at Portland State University analyzed the implementation of family unity meetings in Oregon to identify barriers to family involvement in decision-making and the benefits of holding a series of family unity meetings for each case. Participants in 26 meetings held between January 1998 and April 1999 were surveyed about their perceptions of the meeting process. Caseworkers, facilitators, and family members noted that there was little preparation of the family before the meeting. The families indicated that they would have liked to have received written information about the meeting process. Other barriers to family involvement include an inadequate level of information sharing, lack of understanding about who could be invited, domination of professionals during the meeting, and a sense of powerlessness. Respondents reported that families were more engaged in the meeting when they were involved in the invitation process and fully prepared, when a series of meetings were held, when they felt supported by their families and caseworkers, and when the meeting had a focused goal. Successful facilitation techniques included asking for family input before the meeting, advocating on behalf of the family for information and resources, encouraging professionals to use understandable terminology, and helping the family to develop a strategy for coping with conflict that might arise during the meeting. Follow-up meetings were rated as more productive than initial meetings. 7 references.

KEY TERMS: family group conferences; oregon; program models; statewide planning; program evaluation; decision making; family centered services; best practices

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

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

TITLE: Assessing Outcomes in Child Welfare.

AUTHOR: Stevens, M.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Portsmouth Univ., (United Kingdom).

ABSTRACT: This article reviews the differences between evaluations of outcomes in natural and social research and proposes a new method for assessing the results of social programs. The alternative approach considers the subjective nature of humans which cannot be factored into natural scientific research by studying the variations in how different participants in the process perceive events and relationships. The selection of a research method will depend on the goals of the evaluation to address causal relationships or to synthesize the experiences of participants. For example, the subjective approach will be more appropriate for tracking the empowerment of families because the meaning of empowerment is different for each family. Furthermore, subjectivist research can compare conflicting perspectives. 44 references.

KEY TERMS: outcomes; assessment; evaluation methods; program evaluation; family group conferences; research methodology; models; empowerment

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

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

TITLE: Clinical Effects of Sexual Abuse of Children: A Melbourne Study.

AUTHOR: Murnane, M.; Peachey, M.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

SOURCE: Presented at: The Restoration for Victims of Crime Conference, Melbourne, VIC (Australia), September 9-10, 1999. Australian Institute of Criminology, Cranberra, ACT (Australia)., September 1999; p. 738

ABSTRACT: This study examined the characteristics of 85 children who were sexually abused, the type of frequency of abuse, and the impact of the abuse. The children were referred to the Child Protection Unit at Monash Medical Centre in Australia.They ranged in age from 16 months to 16 years old. Sixty percent were younger than 9 years old. About 70 percent of the referrals were from police organizations. Almost all of the perpetrators were male and 8 percent of the offenders were younger than 9years old. Sixty-two percent of the abusers were relatives or friends of the child. Seventeen of the 85 children were abused by their biological father. The most common forms of abuse were digital penetration of the vulva or vagina, anal intercourse, and vulva-vaginal intercourse. More than half of the children were abused more than one time. The following effects were reported: sleep disorder; enuresis; excessive masturbation; withdrawal; and poor self-esteem. Although these behaviors decreased withtime, aggressive behavior increased. Approximately three-fourths of the 26 parents who were contacted about the effectiveness of treatment perceived the therapy to be average or above average. Many parents did not pursue counseling for the child becauseof family trauma following disclosure. 5 figures and 4 tables.

KEY TERMS: australia; sequelae; sexual abuse; characteristics of abused; characteristics of abuser; forensic medicine; therapeutic effectiveness; child abuse research

PUBLICATION TYPE: Proceedings Paper

INTERNET URL: http://www.aic.gov.au/

TITLE: Family Conflict and Child Adjustment: Evidence for a Cognitive-Contextual Model of Intergenerational Transmission.

AUTHOR: Dadds, M. R.; Atkinson, E.; Turner, C.; Blums, G. J.; Lendich, B.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Journal of Family Psychology

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Griffith Univ., Brisbane, QLD (Australia).

SOURCE: 13(2): pp. 194-208; American Psychological Association, Washington, DC., June 1999; p. 757

ABSTRACT: Three cohorts of 10- to 14-year old adolescents were sampled to obtain perceptions of their parents' conflict resolution styles, their own conflict resolution styles, and their behavioral adjustment, to test J. H. Grych and F. D. Fincham's (1990) cognitive contextual model of the relationship of marital conflict to child adjustment. As found previously, boys and girls were not exposed to different levels or types of interparental conflict, although boys tended to blame themselvesmore. Adolescents' reports of their own conflict resolution styles with siblings were clearly related to level and types of their more general adjustment levels. A series of regressions support Grych and Fincham's model for internalizing problems (and avoidant resolution style) in adolescents; only minimal support was found with externalizing problems (and attacking resolution style). Gender-specific patterns of intergenerational transmission of resolution styles were found and are discussed. 25 references and 3 tables. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: adjustment problems; marital conflicts; family violence; child witnesses of family violence; generational cycle of family violence; conflict resolution; family violence research; sequelae

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

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

TITLE: Child Rearing Perspectives of Grandparent Caregivers.

AUTHOR: Osby, O.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Illinois Univ., Chicago. Jane Addams Coll. of Social Work.

SOURCE: In: Gleason, J.; Hairston, C. F. (Editors). Kinship Care: Improving Practice Through Research. Child Welfare League of America, Washington, DC., 1999; p. 776

ABSTRACT: Ten grandparent kinship caregivers were interviewed for this study to examine the reasons for placement and the world views of grandparents who take on parenting responsibilities for their grandchildren. The ethnographic interview facilitated information-sharing about the grandparents' background, life experiences, child rearing beliefs, and values regarding family and home. Perceptions of the legal and child welfare systems and recommendations for reform were also solicited. Mostreported that they agreed to take care of their grandchild or great-grandchild because of the substance abuse or maltreatment behavior of the child's parents. Many of the grandparents had taken care of the child before. Some believed that their role in life was to care for children, while others resisted the responsibility. Few could name other relatives who could care for the children. Caregivers who did have support from family members were the most satisfied with their role. Other caregivers had no support from the family, friends, church, or community and felt very isolated. Many of the grandparents expressed frustration with the court process and the rights retained by the parents. Some felt that the rules and regulations for kinship care providers were too restrictive and that their parenting experience was not valued. This world view analysis can be used to inform assessment procedures, formulate a relevant service plan, and create innovative interventions. 13 references.

KEY TERMS: kinship care; grandparents; child rearing; parenting; parental attitudes; child welfare services; family support systems; case studies

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

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

TITLE: Who Decides? Predicting Caseworkers' Adoption and Guardianship Discussions With Kinship Caregivers.

AUTHOR: Gleeson, J. P.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Illinois Univ., Chicago. Jane Addams Coll. of Social Work.

SOURCE: In: Gleason, J.; Hairston, C. F. (Editors). Kinship Care: Improving Practice Through Research. Child Welfare League of America, Washington, DC., 1999; p. 779

ABSTRACT: Data collected during the Achieving Permanency for Children in Kinship Foster Care project were analyzed for this study of the factors that influence caseworkers to discuss permanency options with kinship caregivers. Forty-one caseworkers were interviewed about 77 cases in which children in state custody were living in a kinship foster home. Most of the children qualified for the federal special needs adoption subsidy. Caseworkers were asked about the history of each case; permanency planning status; caseworker contact with biological parents, kinship care providers, and the child; services provided; supervision and consultation; and the caseworker's views of the situation. Independent variables included: caregiver age andmarital status; number of siblings of the child living in the kinship foster home; child age; number of years in kinship placement; caseworker's perception of assistance needed by the caregiver; and the presence of an adoption plan. Caseworkers reportedthat they discussed adoption with almost all of the kinship providers, except when reunification was imminent or when the caseworker believed that the caregiver needed the support of the child welfare system. Caseworkers were less likely to inform caregivers about private guardianship, especially when the kinship parents were caring for multiple children. This was attributed to the limitations on AFDC subsidies for legal guardians of multiple children. The policy implications of these findings arediscussed in the chapter. 24 references and 3 tables.

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

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

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

TITLE: Remembering Trauma: A Characterological Perspective.

AUTHOR: Piers, C. C.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Austen Riggs Center, Stockbridge, MA.

SOURCE: In: Williams, L. M. and Banyard, V. L. (Editors). Trauma and Memory. Thousand Oaks, CA, Sage Publications, Inc., 1999; pp. 57-65

ABSTRACT: This chapter criticizes the current focus on dissociation and trauma in therapy and suggests that therapists also consider the character of the patient. It asserts that character, or the individual's perceptions and mannerisms, affects the way a person reacts and responds to trauma. While dissociation theory proposes that symptomatic behaviors are caused by reminders of past trauma that are stored in the patient's mind, the characterological framework attributes maladaptive symptoms to a conflicted character. Although trauma has an impact on development, specific responses to trauma depend on other factors, including the child's system for organizing experiences, as well as the developmental, family, and social environment. The chapter reviews the memory process and describes the typical presentations of patients with a history of trauma. Implications for therapeutic intervention are discussed. 36 references.

KEY TERMS: memory; trauma; dissociation; psychotherapy; therapists role; psychopathology; psychological characteristics; personality

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

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

TITLE: Subjects of Child Protective Investigations: Survey Results and Case Characteristics.

AUTHOR: Hartley, S.; Stutzman, M.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Florida State Office of Program Analysis and Government Accountability, Tallahassee.

SOURCE: Florida State Office of Program Analysis and Government Accountabilty, Tallahassee, December 1998; 82 pp.

ABSTRACT: This study examined how child abuse investigations conducted in Florida affected the ability of parents to control and discipline their child. Data were collected from a review of 600 closed cases and a survey of 203 parents investigated by the Department of Children and Families. The respondents were asked about their experience during the child protection investigation, their perceptions of the investigation process, the effects of the investigation on their parental authority and on child behavior, and their feelings about child protection and the Department of Children and Families. The majority of respondents indicated that the investigator listened to them, treated their family with courtesy, was fair and objective, and thoroughly explained the investigation process. However, less than half reported that they knew if their case was closed. Twenty-two percent of the parents noted that the investigation process had a positive effect on their parental authority, while 59 percent said that there was no impact on their ability to control their child. Child behavior changed in 39 percent of the families. Although almost all of the respondents believed that the state has a responsibility to protect children, only 46 percent thought that the investigation process focused on appropriate cases. Numerous figures and tables.

KEY TERMS: investigations; sequelae; surveys; family characteristics; child behavior; parental reactions; discipline; florida

PUBLICATION TYPE: Technical Report

TITLE: Maternal Factors Associated With Sexually Abused Children's Psychosocial Adjustment.

AUTHOR: Deblinger, E.; Steer, R.; Lippmann, J.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Maltreatment

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Stratford. Center for Children's Support.

SOURCE: 4(1): pp. 13-20; Thousand Oaks, CA, Sage Publications, Inc., February 1999

ABSTRACT: This article reports on the potential influence of maternal adjustment and parenting style on children's psychological adjustment following sexual abuse. Standardized parent and child self-report instruments were administered to 100 sexually abused children between ages 7 and 13 and their non-offending mothers. The results of a series of multiple regression analyses indicated that the maternal self-reported depression significantly contributed to the expression of both posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms and parent-reported internalizing behavior problems in sexually abused children. Children's perceptions of their mothers' parenting style as rejecting rather than accepting contributed to the children's self-reported levels of depression. Children's perceptions of maternal use of guilt and anxiety-provoking parenting methods contributed to increased levels of posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms and parent-reported externalizing behavior problems. These findings are discussed in terms of their research and treatment implications. 2 tables; numerous references. (Author abstract modified)

KEY TERMS: mother child relationships; depression; sexual abuse; maternal behavior; posttraumatic stress disorder; parenting skills; self report inventories; social adjustment

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

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

TITLE: Coping With Sexual Abuse: Development and Evaluation of a Videotape Intervention for Nonoffending Parents.

AUTHOR: Jinich, S.; Litrownik, A. J.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Abuse and Neglect

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: California Univ., San Diego.

SOURCE: 23(2): pp. 175-190; New York, NY, Elsevier Science, February 1999

ABSTRACT: This NCCAN-funded study was conducted to develop, apply, and evaluate a videotape intervention that targeted the development of supportive behaviors in mothers of children who were being examined because of suspected molestation; and to examine the relationship between mothers' reported responses to and beliefs about the molestation and their children's perception of support. Eighty-seven mothers who had children 4 to 12 years of age were recruited and randomly assigned to view either a treatment or control videotape during the time when their child was being examined. Observers who were blinded to this assignment observed and rated parent-child interactions in the waiting room prior to and again after the mothers viewed the videotape. One week after the brief intervention, 64 of the mothers and 30 of the children were interviewed. Mothers who viewed the treatment tape were more likely to engage in supportive behaviors with their child immediately after viewing the tape, and were able to identify more supportive behaviors at the 1-week follow-up. In addition, mothers' reports of how they responded to the molestation (including perceived blame) was related to child perceptions of parental support. The findings indicate that children who have been sexually molested are sensitive to the initial reactions of their nonoffending parent to the disclosure. In addition, there is some evidence that cost-effective interventions can be implemented during the early disclosure period. 21 references, 2 figures, and 3 tables. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: sexual abuse; intervention strategies; nonabusive parents; parent education; parental reactions; coping skills; videotaping; therapeutic effectiveness

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: Male Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse: A Qualitative Study and Issues for Clinical Consideration.

AUTHOR: Gill, M.; Tutty, L. M.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Journal of Child Sexual Abuse

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Calgary Counselling Centre, Alberta (Canada).

SOURCE: 7(3): pp. 19-33; Binghamton, NY, Haworth Press, Inc., 1999

ABSTRACT: This qualitative study explored the effects of childhood sexual abuse with 10 adult male survivors. The men who participated in the research were largely motivated by their perception that North American society does not acknowledge the sexual abuse of boys. The non-acceptance of the sexual abuse of boys and social expectations of men as in control and aggressive significantly affected the sexual identity, as well as the emotional and sexual relationships, of the study participants as adults. The implications of these issues for clinical intervention are described. Therapists are advised to facilitate disclosure of abuse and the acknowledgement of the long-term effects of that abuse. Narrative therapy can be used to address cultural expectations of men and enhance self-esteem. Finally, relationship issues, including abusive behavior by the survivor, should be resolved as the survivor becomes more comfortable with his identity. 43 references. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: adults abused as children; male victims; sexual abuse; child abuse research; sequelae; qualitative research; interviews; emotional problems

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

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

TITLE: The Treatment Histories and Service Involvement of Physically and Sexually Abusive Families: Description, Correspondence, and Clinical Correlates.

AUTHOR: Kolko, D. J.; Selelyo, J.; Brown, E. J.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Abuse and Neglect

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Pittsburgh Univ. School of Medicine, PA. Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic.

SOURCE: 23(5): pp. 459-476; New York, NY, Elsevier Science Ltd., May 1999

ABSTRACT: This NCCAN-funded study examines the treatment histories, and the service needs, concerns, and involvement of cases referred to Child Protective Services (CPS) following an allegation of child physical or sexual abuse in an effort to document their services experiences. Standardized clinical assessments were conducted with child victims and their caregivers at intake and at a second assessment following an initial service about 4 to 8 months later. Group differences due to informant type and abuse allegation were examined at each assessment and across time. Thirty percent of the caregivers and children had a history of psychiatric hospitalization. Reports from both informants at intake identified a range of perceived service needs, treatment goals, and obstacles to service participation. At the post- service assessment, children and their caregivers reported high rates of family (54 percent, 51 percent) and parent counseling (50 percent, 51 percent), and lower rates for child treatment (13 percent, 18 percent). Some significant differences between the two abuse subgroups were found in their patterns of service involvement and in their ratings of service goals and obstacles. Four variables predicted overall family service use at intake: child is Caucasian, low child anxiety, high parental distress, and parental abuse history as a child. These findings extend initial descriptions of the service involvement of CPS families and bear implications for both practice and research on the delivery of services in CPS. 52 references and 6 tables. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: family services; service delivery; characteristics of abuser; family characteristics; psychological needs; predictor variables; child welfare research; utilization

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: Inappropriate Child Rearing Practices as Perceived by Jewish Immigrant Parents From the Former Societ Union.

AUTHOR: Shor, R.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Abuse and Neglect

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Hebrew Univ., Mt. Scopus, Jerusalem (Israel). Paul Baerwald School of Social Work.

SOURCE: 23(5): pp. 487-499; New York, NY, Elsevier Science Ltd., May 1999

ABSTRACT: This study explored the perceptions of Jewish immigrant parents from the Former Soviet Union about appropriate and inappropriate child rearing practices and help seeking preferences in situations of children at risk. Interviews with 273 immigrant parents were conducted in Israel. A semi- structured questionnaire included seven vignettes which related to three areas of parental behaviors: lack of provision of child's needs; corporal punishment; and psychological punishment. In addition, open-ended questions were included about the participants' personal beliefs regarding the use of physical punishment towards children. The findings suggest a concrete and practical approach towards child rearing practices, support for the utilization of certain types of corporal and psychological punishment, consideration of the gender of the child regarding corporal punishment, a perception of children as self sufficient at a fairly young age, and a tendency not to cooperate with outsiders in situations of children at risk. Even though Jewish immigrants from the Former Soviet Union might be in a new country for several years, their background may still have a significant role in their child rearing practices and help seeking patterns. Awareness of their perceptions could provide information which is significant for the accurate assessment of situational abuse and neglect among the immigrants and for defining appropriate treatment objectives and means for achieving change. 24 references and 5 tables. (Author abstract)

KEY TERMS: israel; child rearing; parental attitudes; immigrants; cultural values; corporal punishment; intervention strategies; child welfare research

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

TITLE: Juvenile Sex Abusers: Perceptions of Social Work Practitioners.

AUTHOR: Ladwa-Thomas, U.; Sanders, R.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Child Abuse Review

SOURCE: 8(1): pp. 55-62; New York, NY, John Wiley and Sons, Ltd., January-February 1999

ABSTRACT: Seven child protection social workers with previous experience of working with adolescent sex offenders were interviewed to explore their definitions of abusive behavior, views as to the causes of young people abusing others, social work intervention, and personal resources needed to work with young abusers. There were 11 cases recalled, involving work with 13 perpetrators, 12 male and 1 female. While the limitations of the retrospective and subjective nature of this approach and the study very small sample are appreciated, there is considerable value in reflecting on previous practice with the benefit of current knowledge. The final section of the paper discusses means of improving practice in working with adolescent sex offenders and child protection training. Numerous references.

KEY TERMS: adolescent sex offenders; social workers; sexually abusive children; child protection; professional training

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

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

TITLE: Violent Families.

AUTHOR: Sternberg, K. J.; Lamb, M. E.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (DHHS), Bethesda, MD.

SOURCE: In: Lamb, M. E. (Editor). Parenting and Child Development in Nontraditional Families. Mahwah, NJ, Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, Publishers, 1999; pp. 305-325

ABSTRACT: This chapter begins with a discussion of incidence and prevalence statistics concerning child maltreatment, spouse abuse, and their co-occurrence. This information underscores how many children are exposed to family violence and also shows how difficult it is to understand the phenomenon of family violence in its full complexity. Next, the authors review studies designed to compare parent-child interactions in violent and non-violent families. This section emphasizes research depicting children's perceptions of their parents and highlights the need to discriminate between perpetrating and non-perpetrating parents. The authors conclude that family violence is almost certainly harmful but professionals are only now becoming aware of the many faces of family violence, and this knowledge is forcing psychologists to begin addressing more complex questions about its effects on family functioning and child development. Numerous references.

KEY TERMS: spouse abuse; parent child relationships; family violence; prevalence; abusive parents; perception; child development

PUBLICATION TYPE: Chapter in Book

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

TITLE: Familial Support as Perceived by Adult Victims of Childhood Sexual Abuse.

AUTHOR: Stroud, D. D.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

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

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: New Mexico Univ., Albuquerque. Dept. of Psychology.

SOURCE: 11(2): pp. 159-175; New York, NY, Kluwer Academic-Plenum Publishers, April 1999

ABSTRACT: With the increasing popularity of family therapies in cases of childhood sexual abuse, many studies have discussed the importance of familial support in the successful recovery of victims. Therefore, systematic study exploring family support of victims was undertaken to shed light on the level of family support perceived by adult victims of childhood sexual abuse. It was anticipated that victims of intrafamilial sexual abuse would report more family dissatisfaction and perceive less family support than extrafamilial victims. Sixty-six undergraduate students were recruited as subjects and administered a demographics and child sexual abuse survey. As hypothesized, intrafamilial victims reported significantly less father, parent, and brother support. Additionally, the gender of the victim played a significant role: male victims reported less father, parent and sister support, and less family protectiveness after disclosure compared to female victims. Based on the results, clinicians should be aware that issues of gender and relatedness may play a significant part in the effectiveness of their childhood sexual abuse clients' family support systems. An appendix provides the family support questionnaire used in the study. 4 tables and numerous references. (Author abstract modified)

KEY TERMS: family therapy; adults abused as children; sexual abuse; perception; questionnaires; victims; family support systems

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

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

TITLE: Pathways in the Offending Process of Extrafamilial Sexual Child Molesters.

AUTHOR: Proulx, J.; Perreault, C.; Ouimet, M.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

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

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Montreal Univ., Quebec (Canada). School of Criminology.

SOURCE: 11(2): pp. 117-129; New York, NY, Kluwer Academic-Plenum Publishers, April 1999

ABSTRACT: This study investigated specific pathways in the offending process of extrafamilial sexual child molesters. Forty-four Canadian men who had committed at least one sexual offense against a nonfamilial prepubescent child were included in this study and were classified using cluster analysis. Thirty subjects using the coercive pathway had generally used psychoactive substances before their offenses. Furthermore, they had sexually abused a female victim without perceived vulnerability and whom they had already known. These offenders had not planned their offense, which was of short duration (less than 15 minutes), and involved coital activities and coercion (verbal and/or physical). Fourteen subjects using the noncoercive pathway had generally used pornography and deviant sexual fantasies before their offenses. Moreover, they had molested a male victim, in whom they perceived a psychosocial vulnerability and who was not familiar to them. These molesters had planned their offense, which was of longer duration (more than 15 minutes) and involved noncoital activities without coercion. These 2 pathways were compared. 6 tables and numerous references. (Author abstract modified)

KEY TERMS: sex offenders; sexual abuse; male victims; female victims; pornography; canada

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

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

TITLE: Dimensions of Marital Conflict and Children's Social Problem-Solving Skills.

AUTHOR: Goodman, S. H.; Barfoot, B.; Frye, A. A.; Belli, A. M.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Journal of Family Psychology

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Emory Univ., Atlanta, GA. Dept. of Psychology.

SOURCE: 13(1): pp. 33-45; Washington, DC, American Psychological Association, Inc., March 1999

ABSTRACT: Marital conflict has been shown to be negatively associated with child functioning. This study examined the relationships of negative and positive aspects of marital conflict and frequency of conflict with children's social problem-solving skills, as measured by effectiveness of alternative solutions. Mothers, fathers, and children reported on marital conflict. Instruments used to assess conflict included the Interparental Conflict Questionnaire, the Conflict Tactics Scale, the Marital Conflict Outcome Instrument, the Children's Perception of Interparental Conflict, and the Alternative Solutions Test. Mothers' higher negative conflict characteristics, in the context of greater frequency of conflict, and less frequent positive conflict characteristics, in the context of lower frequency of conflict, were significantly associated with their children's less effective social problem-solving solutions. For fathers, none of the negative but one of the positive conflict characteristics was significantly associated with their children's more effective social problem-solving solutions, regardless of the frequency of marital conflict. Children's perceptions of their parents' conflict were not significant predictors of their social problem-solving skills. Findings are interpreted in the framework of children's modeling aggressive conflict. 4 tables and numerous references. (Author abstract modified)

KEY TERMS: problem solving; marital conflicts; conflict tactics scales; social skills; questionnaires

PUBLICATION TYPE: Journal Article

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

TITLE: Services for Child Maltreatment: Challenges for Research and Practice.

AUTHOR: Faver, C. A.; Crawford, S. L.; Combs-Orme, T.

PUBLICATION YEAR: 1999

JOURNAL TITLE: Children and Youth Services Review

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