The politics of child abuse in America
By: Lela B. Costin, Howard Jacob Karger, David Stoesz.
Contributors: Karger, Howard Jacob, 1948-; Stoesz, David.
Series: Child welfare; Child welfare (Oxford University Press)
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Published: 1996
Place of publication: New York
Language: eng
Number of pages: 194
Subjects: Abused children -- Services for -- United States -- History; Child abuse -- United States -- Prevention -- History; Social work with children -- United States -- History
Description: Child abuse policy in the United States contains dangerous contradictions. A rapidly expanding child abuse industry, consisting of enterprising psychotherapists and attorneys, consumes enormous resources. At the same time, thousands of poor children are seriously injured or killed, many while being "protected" by public agencies. The growing interest in child abuse as a middle class problem has led to the frenzied pursuit of offenders, resulting in the sacrifice of innocent children and adults.

The Politics of Child Abuse in America presents a compelling analysis of these problems, revealing the historical patterns that gave rise to them and presenting practical policy recommendations. It will be an invaluable resource for scholars, students, and professionals in social work, as well as for anyone concerned about the welfare of children in the United States.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references and index.