Preventing Child Maltreatment in the U.S.: The Black Community Perspective (Violence Against Women and Children)

## The Black Community Perspective Vio lence against Women and Children Series editor, Judy L. Postmus Millions of women and children are affected by vio lence across the globe. Gender-based vio lence affects individuals, families, communities, and policies. Our new series includes books written by experts from a wide range of disciplines, including social work, sociology, health, criminal justice, education, history, and women's studies. A unique feature of the series is the collaboration between academics and community prac ti tion ers. The primary author of each book in most cases is a scholar, but at least one chapter is written by a practitioner, who draws out the practical implications of the academic research. Topics will include physical and sexual vio lence; psychological, emotional, and economic abuse; stalking; trafficking; and childhood maltreatment, and will incorporate a gendered, feminist, or womanist analy sis. Books in the series are addressed to an audience of academics and students, as well as to prac ti tion ers and policymakers. "Child maltreatment occurs in the Black community at higher rates than any other racial group. Given the prevalence of child maltreatment risk factors in the Black community, such as being in a low-income family, single parent family, greater exposure to physical discipline, and less access to services and resources, it is not surprising but nonetheless concerning that Black children are at greater risk for abuse and/or neglect. Unearthing the cause and effect between the challenges faced by the Black community and the life outcomes for Black children is key to making positive changes happen. Through a feminist and womanist lens, the authors unpack the range of factors that intersect and impact the Black community that are necessary to address to effectively protect Black children. Understanding how to prevent maltreatment and promote health and wellness are essential to adequately address maltreatment so as to protect and empower Black children"-- Provided by publisher. Contents Introduction 1. Understanding Black Families 2. The Epidemiology of Maltreatment of Black Children 3. Exploring the Child Welfare System 4. Child Maltreatment Prevention and Intervention 5. Promoting Health and Wellness 6. Advocacy and Child Welfare Reform 7. Application of Prevention and Intervention: A Case Study 8. Conclusion: What the Future Should Hold Recommended Readings and Resources References Index Child maltreatment occurs in the Black community at higher rates than any other racial group. Through a feminist and womanist lens, the authors unpack the factors impacting the Black community that lead to maltreatment of Black children. This book offers resources and guidance for preventing maltreatment, promoting health and wellness, and to empower Black children.