The Maltreatment of Children: A Review of Theories and Research

Abstract

This article reviews the literature pertaining to the causes of child maltreatment. The review discussw 68 articles from various disciplines and organizes them into four predominant theories; psychodynamic, social learning, social psychological, and sociological. Research evidence supporting each of the theories is described and critiqued.

Child Maltreatment Intervention: Directions and Issues

“…Further, Gil's ambitious suggestion that poverty be eliminated assumes that the socioeconomic stress hypothesis of child maltreatment is fact. However, as we mentioned earlier (Sweet & Resick, 1979) this has not been confirmed.…”

Clinical assessment instruments in the treatment of child abuse and neglect

“…Attempts to delineate distinguishing traits of abusing and neglecting parents have resulted in markedly inconsistent findings (Gelardo & Sanford, 1987;Sweet & Resick, 1979). Most data suggest that only 5 to 10% of abusers can be classified as psychotic or mentally ill (Friedman et al, 1981).…”

Clinical assessment instruments in the treatment of child abuse and neglect

“…Attempts to delineate distinguishing personality traits of abusing and neglectful parents have resulted in markedly inconsistent findings (Gelardo & Sanford, 1987;Sweet & Resick, 1979). Most data suggest that only 5-10% of abusers can be classified as psychotic or mentally ill (Friedman et ai, 1981).…”