NCJ Number
195015
Date Published
2000
Length
42 pages
Annotation
This paper explores links between child maltreatment and domestic violence.
Abstract
The paper describes the relationship between various forms of child maltreatment and adult intimate violence, discusses the intergenerational nature of the violence, and explores various forms of prevention derived from the child maltreatment field that are equally applicable for current domestic violence prevention initiatives. The paper explores the relationship between domestic violence and neglect, physical and sexual abuse, and witnessing domestic violence. The professional response to child maltreatment includes preventing family violence, especially in the following priority areas: (1) working with children and young people to break the cycle of violence between generations; (2) working with adults to break patterns of violence and working with victims and violent men; (3) working with the community, educating against violence; (4) protection of the law; (5) information and best practice; and (6) helping people in rural and remote communities. The article contends that, until the views and actions of Australian males are changed to such an extent that violence is seen as unacceptable and "unmanly," and it becomes socially desirable to intervene in domestic violence or child maltreatment, significant societal changes in the perpetration of violence are unlikely. Notes