This study examines a group of 21 imprisoned males, convicted of murder whilst aged 18 years or less, and compares them on a range of psychosocial variables to 21 convicted non-violent burglars. Results showed that lower socio-economic status, harsh parenting, and exclusion from school were significantly more common for murderers. Confirms that…

Examines the narrative of two child abuse epidemics, one in England and one in the Netherlands. The authors examine the impact of these incidents on social work, policing, medical and pediatric practice, together with an analysis of the response of penal law and court practice. Effects of blame on the professionals involved is highlighted. (JPS)

Identifies and analyzes central tensions and themes that characterize child protection policy in England and Wales. Outlines conflicting messages that have been prevalent in debates about child abuse since the early 1980s. Analyzes in detail the 1989 Children Act, the 1991 Criminal Justice Act, Working Together (1991), and the Memorandum of Good…

Sixty child care workers in a British residential assessment program for male adolescents with possible behavior disorders rated vignettes describing either physical or sexual assault. Sexual assaults were perceived to be more serious than physical assaults and their perpetrators more dangerous. Female care workers perceived a greater difference…

Despite a rapid growth in research interest and treatment facilities for adolescent sex offenders, understanding of how these adolescents differ from non-offending adolescents remains incomplete. This study contributes to knowledge of the distinguishing characteristics of offenders and focuses on levels of sexual knowledge and empathy that…

Studied 205 children who were subjects of child protection investigations in 1995 in England. Found that for the vast majority, welfare needs were ignored in the process of investigation. Identified the need to refocus investigations and suggested criteria to be used to provide a clearer focus on whether to investigate a referral. (Author/LPP)

Explores the idea of "wonderful children" as a socially defined concept pervading parents' perceptions of their children. Examines professionals' views of young children and possible contradictions which arise within the specific context of child abuse. The analysis is based on interviews with mothers and observations of interactions at…

In the United Kingdom, professionals are not legally required to report suspected cases of child abuse. The Children Act (1989) specified that local authorities have a duty to safeguard the welfare of children, but did not make reporting mandatory. It identified specific tasks for teachers in the process of reporting and established joint…

An epidemiological survey revealed a 1-year period prevalence rate of 1.5 juvenile sexual offenders per 1000 males (ages 12-17) within Oxfordshire (England), and .85 per 1000 of all youth in that age group. The majority of sexually abusive youth were male, with a family history of neglect, physical abuse, and/or sexual abuse. Behavioral and…

This study reviewed the case records of 41 British children with illnesses induced by a parent, almost always the mother. Four patterns emerged: (1) failure-to-thrive through withholding of food; (2) allegation of allergy and withholding of food; (3) allegation and fabrication of medical symptoms; and (4) active interference by poisoning or…

Explores the coverage and effectiveness of child protection training within school-centered teacher training courses in England in the aftermath of the new requirements for these courses. Concludes with a call for a full evaluation of the effectiveness of child protection training within teacher training. (CMK)

Presents findings of a World Rehabilitation Fund Fellowship study on the intersection of child abuse, family support, and disability in England. These findings are then compared to the American picture in this arena. Implications for new directions are delineated. (Author/BB)

Considers nature and extent of child abuse by examining the cultural context within which abuse takes place; the different forms of abuse and effects on the family; the extent of the problem, particularly among different social classes; and the role of the teacher. (DST)

The purpose of the international symposium on Violence Toward Children was to lay foundations, identify priorities and put forward guidelines for further research and action designed to reduce the level and frequency of violent acts perpetrated on children. This document presents an edited account of the major questions addressed. The main thesis…

British standards for inspection of residential services will not protect children from abuse because they do not address underlying problems. New proposals may correct some problems, but inspections probably cannot meet child protection objectives. Future developments should address enforcement of standards, collaboration between agencies…