Child maltreatment by neglect or family inattention: conceptualization and intervention

Abstract

Currently, situations of child maltreatment are detected due to negligence or lack of attention on the part of family members due to family dysfunctionalities in which involuntary maltreatment may emerge. This article aims to present an experience where a group technique was applied in a Center for Early Childhood Development and Early Care (CDIAP) in Barcelona. The purpose is to make families aware of and responsible for the care of their children, so that they modify their own behaviour and, at the same time, prevent the aggravation of situations of child abuse. The article is organized in two distinct parts. In the first, a theoretical-conceptual reflection framework is presented, which includes some contributions of literature on child maltreatment and, in particular, maltreatment due to neglect or lack of attention on the part of family. In the second part, the social intervention implemented in the CDIAP is described and analyzed. Finally, as a conclusion, some final reflections are presented.