Neighbourhood collective efficacy and protective effects on child maltreatment: A systematic literature review

Abstract

Over the years, systems and approaches to protect children from maltreatment have evolved after the publication of The Battered Child Syndrome by Kempe and colleagues (1962). To date, there has been a continuing shift from a focus on statutory child protection to family-and community-based protection systems

Towards Culturally Specific Solutions: Evidence from Ghanaian Kinship Caregivers on Child Neglect Intervention

“…ISC emphasises the action and intervention of neighbours to prevent social problems and ensure adherence to social norms in neighbourhoods (e.g. Abdullah et al, 2020c; Emery et al, 2015; Warner, 2014). These intervention efforts are deemed to be strengthened by the social ties, mutual exchange and trust among neighbours (Warner et al, 2010).…”

“…These intervention efforts are deemed to be strengthened by the social ties, mutual exchange and trust among neighbours (Warner et al, 2010). Therefore, family members and close friends may be willing to accept a neighbour's child due to the level of bond and trust between them (Abdullah et al, 2020c; Emery et al, 2015). The theory holds that neighbours' interventions are geared towards ensuring social order; in this instance, preventing child neglect within the neighbourhood.…”

During and beyond the frequent lockdowns: Addressing the pandemic (COVID-19)–related family violence through informal social control

“…In the past few years, we have developed informal social control as a mechanism for controlling and addressing IPV and child maltreatment ( cf. Abdullah et al, 2020; Emery et al, 2015c; Emery & Abdullah, 2021). Findings from several of our studies suggest that neighbors’ informal social control can be protective against IPV and child maltreatment behaviors ( cf.…”

“…Findings from several of our studies suggest that neighbors’ informal social control can be protective against IPV and child maltreatment behaviors ( cf. Abdullah et al, 2020; Emery et al, 2015a, 2015b) and sometimes deter/prevent violent behaviors (Emery et al, 2015b). The rationale for informal social control is not only limited to the intervention, rather neighbors intervening against family violence incidence must protect the victim and explain to the abuser the accepted norms of society (Emery et al, 2015b).…”

“…Emery et al, 2015a). Intervening in an aggressive manner may result in retaliation and be met with hostility (see Abdullah et al, 2020), whereas non-coercive approaches to intervention may be met with perceived legitimacy and acceptance. Sampson et al (1997) argued that social solidarity, social ties, and reciprocal exchange among neighbors provide context for neighborhood informal social control.…”