Intervention strategies and conceptions of child abuse

This study examines the relationship between the illness conception of child abuse, the inconclusive research that supports it, and child welfare intervention policy. An analysis is presented of the negative effects that can occur when intervention choices are guided by an illness conception of child abuse. Since the illness conception of abuse is not supported by empirical research, and since it may cause potential harm, the study recommends that protective service agencies set aside the medical model. It is further suggested that agencies adopt a low profile during intervention until more definitive research is conducted and accurate knowledge is obtained about child abuse.