NCJ Number
95879
Date Published
1984
Length
25 pages
Annotation
Clinical and empirical evidence is presented to support the contention that child abuse is best conceptualized as a complex cognitive-behavioral phenomenon. A review of the Mt. Hope Family Center in Rochester, N.Y., demonstrates a treatment model for families based on this approach.
Abstract
In cognitive behavior theory, the abusive process consists of four stages: parent has inappropriate expectations for the child, child does not meet parental expectations, parent misinterprets the child's behavior, and parent responds aggressively to the child. If clinicians adopt this model, they first assess family members to determine whether the cognitive defects are present and then evaluate the family's social interactional system. The parents' knowledge of child development, their expectations for their child's behavior, and parenting behavior must be examined through questionnaires and observation in both home and classroom settings. Treatment programs directed at the parent can be cognitive, trying to modify misinterpretive styles and unrealistic expectations, or behavioral, by placing more emphasis on parent's actions and teaching child management skills. Some combine both approaches. Abused children, who often are more aggressive and developmentally delayed than nonabused children, must also be treated by methods that rely on positive reinforcement for socially acceptable conduct or on redirecting negative behavior. The Mt. Hope Family Center uses a comprehensive approach involving classroom experiences for preschool children and therapy for parents. Prevention efforts should include education in parenting skills, more support systems for parents, an public education campaigns in the media. Approximately 40 references are supplied.