NCJ Number
70242
Date Published
1975
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This film emphasizes that abusive parents can be helped to change, by documenting a case of child abuse, beginning with a third-grade teacher's discovery of abuse and ending with the restoration of the abused child to his parents' care.
Abstract
At the start of the film, 9-year old Stephen Saunders, once the brightest, most outgoing of the third graders, appears to be losing interest in everything. His teacher accidentally discovers that Stephen's back is bruised and informs the school principal who tries to dissuade her from action. The school counselor recommends that the teacher turn the problem over to Protective Services, the community agency charged with the responsibility for dealing with child abuse cases. When a social worker from the agency visits Stephen's home, neither parent will admit that Stephen has been mistreated or will agree to go for counseling. As a result, Stephen is taken from his classroom directly to foster care. Two weeks later, the parents attend a court hearing and agree to go into a counseling and treatment program at a family agency. Stephen is returned to his parents' care under the supervision of the agency social worker and goes back again to his old school. The film is intended for junior and senior high school and college classes, teachers, guidance counselors, and persons aiding families in crisis. Suggesting readings, sources of information about child abuse, and things to look for in cases of child abuse and neglect are given in the pamphlet accompanying the film.