NCJ Number
224555
Journal
Child Maltreatment Volume: 13 Issue: 4 Dated: November 2008 Pages: 417-423
Date Published
November 2008
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article is a commentary on the technology projects described in this special issue.
Abstract
It is noted that the articles in this special issue describe how different types of technology could be applied in the child maltreatment field to improve activities. This commentary suggests that though new technology does not necessarily make for better content, it does create exciting new possibilities that creative minds can use to advance the field. The projects described in this issue are noted to be examples of such creativity and give a glimpse of the future. However, it is noted that advances in technology applications do not come without some cost and some loss. Technological approaches may reduce human interaction and result in the loss of its intangible benefits. The commentary suggests that the child maltreatment field appears to be ripe for broad-based application of technology in three areas: Web-based professional training; self-directed interventions and prevention programs; and the use of social networking technology. Additionally, the work proposes ideas for understanding the true cost of developing, implementing, and maintaining technological applications. References