NCJ Number
73123
Date Published
1977
Length
120 pages
Annotation
This report evaluates the impact on child clients in 3 of 11 child abuse and neglect service projects funded by the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare from 1974 through 1977 to test alternative strategies for dealing with the problem of child abuse and neglect. The projects were located in Los Angeles, St. Louis, and Adams County, Colo.
Abstract
The projects differed by size, geographic location, the types of agencies in which they were housed, the kinds of staff employed, and the variety of services offered. Data for this evaluation were recorded by the clinicians working most closely with the children, using forms developed by an independent evaluator. Data described children's characteristics, services received, problems at intake, and progress during treatment. A total of 70 children were studied. Most children studied were male, caucasian, and between 3 and 7-years old. Most were victims of emotional abuse or neglect or were high risk cases. Few had any special characteristics such as prematurity which would distinguish them from other children. Their families were similar to other abusive/neglectful families. Children displayed a wide variety of problems, including physical problems, socialization problems, family interaction problems, and problems in cognitive, language, or motor skills. Many children made some progress on their problems while in treatment. Half the children solved their problems of malnutrition, delayed height and head circumference, eating patterns, ability to gain and receive affection, and other problems. Some problems remained unchanged, however, and a small proportion of children regressed during treatment. Factors such as the seriousness of the case at intake or the length of treatment were not good predictors of progress during treatment. It was concluded that abused and neglected children have numerous physical, emotional, and social problems. Direct intervention at an early age is needed to prevent more permanent damage. All child abuse and neglect programs should include treatment services for children. Project descriptions, appendixes presenting data collection form, a list of 44 references, and list of major evaluation reports and papers are included. For related evaluations of the demonstration projects, see NCJ 73114-22 and 73090.