Child fatality review teams (CFRTs) have existed since the 1970s; yet, a comprehensive understanding of their procedures, practices, and outcomes is lacking. This article addresses that gap in this study of CFRT state statutes. Findings indicate CFRT laws address nine areas of practice, from team composition, to purpose, to outcomes. Results also…

The Prevention Initiative Demonstration Project, funded by the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), is a community-specific strategy delivered through eight regional networks designed to address the full spectrum of community-based prevention. This article summarizes a strong and meaningful pattern of improvements…

This article examines the importance of context in evaluative inquiry. Following guidelines from real-world and utilization-focused evaluation frameworks, four projects are described to illustrate one foundation's pragmatic approach to evaluation that values collaboration, methodological appropriateness, and utilization. The authors contend that…

This study examines the characteristics and patterns of child maltreatment among Cambodian refugee families in Los Angeles and assesses the implications for child welfare practice with Cambodian refugee families. Data were extracted from 243 active Cambodian case files maintained by the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services…

Based on an examination of key elements of criminal law, this article argues that child abuse is best prevented and treated through civil proceedings rather than criminal action. (SS)

A Texas volunteer program designed to prevent child neglect and abuse also stresses promotion of the public's awareness of its responsibility to report suspected cases. (Author/SE)

Finds an absence of adverse effects in a questionnaire survey of 233 parents of very young children in a school-based sexual abuse program. Notes that findings should help ameliorate fears about teaching young children about the possibility and prevention of abuse. (SAK)

The public school system is urged to play a pivotal role in the detection and prevention of child abuse and neglect. The results of one school district's efforts to play a role as the advocate of children's rights are described. (CS)

A demonstration program of a system coordinating the wide variety of services provided for neglected and abused children in a metropolitan area has produced many gains in the handling of such cases: notably, avoidance of institutionalization. (Author/CS)

Presents a framework for preventive action on federal, state and local levels. Obstacles to the provision of preventive services are indicated and lines of action in the areas of policy, legislation, and program capacity building are recommended. (Author/RH)

Suggests a series of measures for prevention of child abuse through education, legislation, elimination of poverty, and social services. (Author/AJ)

Describes three cases which exemplify mistakes in the recognition of child abuse by physicians, judges, and child welfare professionals. Discusses implications for prevention of child abuse and death and disability in young, at-risk children. (RJC)

Discusses the role of early childhood educators in combatting child abuse and neglect; evaluates data obtained from questionnaires completed by Canadian child care workers; recommends steps for maximizing effectiveness of childhood educators as a community resource in detecting and preventing child abuse. (CM)

Notes that the majority of prevention efforts offer services to individual parents, families, or children with the goal of altering behaviors and attitudes that contribute to risk. Identifies what is known about the efficacy of prevention, highlights the most promising elements of prevention programming, and summarizes critical outstanding…

Discusses responses of, as well as treatments for, the victim, the offender, and the family involved with incestuous abuse, and contends that nonaccusatory but firm intervention is preferable to prosecution in achieving primary prevention and rehabilitation. (BR)