Social Causes of Child Abuse

Paper Summary:

This paper details the published research findings which state that there are four basic types of abusers. The writer of this paper explores the various theories that claim child abuse is in fact based on social, environmental and structural factors including economic status, cultural values, social isolation and lack of a community support system. The writer contends and explains why cultural norms are a significant cause of child abuse. The writer of this paper emphasizes the need for early intervention to both identify and combat cases of child abuse. The writer also stresses the importance of understanding the social causes of child abuse which can then help treat the abuser and prevent abuse from both occurring and escalating.

Table of Contents:
The Types of Abusers
The Social Systems Theory
Socialization/Role Strain Theory
The Social Interaction Theory
The Religious Theory
Other Social Phenomena
Intervention
Conclusion
References

From the Paper:

"Research and studies on child abuse and abusers indicate there are four basic types of abuser. The "accelerator" sees the child as having some kind of negative affect. (The child may remind them of a former spouse, or be inadvertently blamed for the break-up of a relationship). The abuser may take out their anger and frustration at these situations on the child. The "mediator" has some kind of reason that rationalizes the abuse, such as Biblical passages or "folk" wisdom that seem to support some kind of harsh discipline ("spare the rod and spoil the child"). In the "brakes" abuser, the abuser cannot control their actions and impulses and so allow their impulses to rule over their common sense.
Finally, the "reinforcer" finds some kind of emotional payoff from the abuse. They feel more in control, they can ignore other problems in their life, etc."

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