NCJ Number
223664
Journal
Journal of Emotional Abuse Volume: 8 Issue: 1/2 Dated: 2008 Pages: 3-28
Date Published
2008
Length
26 pages
Annotation
Based on the conclusions and recommendations of a "think tank" conducted in fall 2006, this article identifies and explains the needs and service gaps for children exposed to violence (CEV).
Abstract
Seven major issues were identified by the think tank. First, CEV must be recognized as a public health problem. Second, child development, including neurodevelopment, should be integrated into all aspects of research policy, practice, evaluation, assessment, and training. Third, prevention and intervention efforts must be child-centered within the family context. Fourth, embracing a multidisciplinary and ecologically sound approach would enhance systems of care for children and families. Fifth, a tiered approach--from frontline workers, to supervisors, to community members--enhances prevention and intervention efforts. Sixth, children exposed to violence require a coordinated and multidisciplinary marketing campaign. Seventh, a guide for strategic planning for systems and communities must be developed. The practice gaps given high priority by the think tank are in four categories: practice techniques, research-based practice, ecological framework, and screening/assessment. The three categories of training gaps were content and process, the audience, and evaluation and technical assistance. The think tank identified three main categories of gaps in the research and evaluation of CEV: research standards, outcomes research, and the dynamics of CEV research. Policy gaps and needs pertain to reactive versus proactive systems, fragmented systems, and social policy that supports systems integration versus systems abuse. Needs are identified and recommendations offered for each of the aforementioned main categories. 26 references and 1 appendix