| Abstract: | Summary Using a natural history model, this paper attempts to understandand explain why the problem of child abuse was recognized inBritain when it was and in the manner in which it was. It tracesits development from the initial discovery in America. Particularemphasis is given to the work of the NSPCC battered child researchunit, Sir Keith Joseph, the Tunbridge Wells Study Group andthe media in contributing to the social reaction to the caseof Maria Colwell, which established non-accidental injury asa major social problem in Britain. These developments have hadimplications for the changing role of the personal social servicesand may reflect broader changes in the control culture and therelationship between the state and the family. |
