Family Systems Approach to Child Abuse (From Child Abuse and Neglect: An Interdisciplinary Method of Treatment, P 101-116, 1989, Narviar Cathcart Barker, ed. - See NCJ- 163604)

• NCJ Number: 163612
• Author(s): H W Coale
• Date Published: 1989
• Length: 16 pages
• Sale Source: Kendall/ Hunt Publishing Co
• Publication Type: Report (Technical Assistance)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

The systems approach rests on the concepts of nonobjective reality and the inclusion of the observer as part of the system being observed and is useful in a wide variety of treatment interventions in cases of child abuse and neglect.

Abstract

The definition of system in relation to child abuse emphasizes the family system and includes all individuals, agencies, and relevant contextual factors. Two examples of therapeutic perspectives from which to regard client realities are power and congruence. The therapist should use such perspectives as helpful generalities with each new case and should then abandon them in favor of a curious stance with each new case, never assuming that any two cases will present with identical realities. Otherwise, the therapist may abandon hope because the family does not fit the therapist's view of reality. Maintaining curiosity and appreciating the complexity and diversity of realities help the therapist and each family system find a vast array of treatment resources. Case examples and 77 references