A case is discussed in which parents of a disabled child seek counseling for the strain placed on their relationship by child care demands. The importance of understanding each other's perspective on child care and home management is emphasized, along with sharing burdens and maintaining open communication through stressful years. (PB)

Examined relationship between aggregate measures of family structure and homicide victimization rates of infants and children in 17 developed nations since 1965. Results indicated infant homicide rates were higher where rates of births to teenage mothers were higher; child homicide rates were higher where illegitimacy rates, births to teenage…

Qualities of strong families of children with disabilities are described, and assessment tools for measuring these strengths are reviewed. Empirical evidence for the reliability and validity of the Family Functioning Style Scale (FFSS) is presented, along with discussion of psychometric aspects of the test. Guidelines for FFSS use in interventions…

A study of 1037 cases of child sexual abuse in Canada found: (1) earlier onset, longer duration, higher level of intrusion, and greater physical and emotional injury for intrafamilial victims; (2) less use of force or enticements by intrafamilial offenders; and (3) more convictions and longer sentences for intrafamilial offenders. (Author/CR)

This study explored individual, family, and school-related factors contributing to underachievement among 56 gifted students (grades four to eight). Comparison of four models found the complex model incorporating all three factors best fit the data. The importance of an ecological approach to problems of underachievement is stressed. Intervention…

Explores reasons for recantation of abuse allegations and the problems recantation presents for the continued safety of the child and for the efficacy of child protective services and criminal justice interventions. Offers practical steps for prosecutors, child protective workers, attorneys, law enforcement investigators, and members of…

Describes a cognitive-behavioral model for treating couples' negative reactions to infertility. After a discussion of why the cognitive-behavioral approach can competently address the goals of couples coping with infertility, three phases of treatment are outlined: assessment, therapy, and closure. Areas for assessment include spouses, marital…

Examines why fathers tend to be underrepresented in research on child and family functioning. Recommendations for encouraging more nonsexist family research that includes both mothers and fathers are explored, and the implications for the inclusion of fathers in prevention and clinical interventions are discussed. (GR)

Assesses variations in the levels and determinants of family support and family conflict in 3 age groups of noninstitutionalized physically disabled individuals (18-49; 50-64; 65-older). Results indicated life-course related differences in the levels of both family support and family conflict, with the oldest group perceiving the greatest support…

Social exchange framework is applied to Summit's Child Sexual Abuse Accommodation Syndrome, which describes a common pattern of interaction and response among child victims of sexual abuse, their caretakers, and adult offenders. Analysis of the syndrome demonstrates the applicability of the exchange perspective for this aspect of child sexual…

Presents a review of the empirical literature examining the initial effects of witnessing domestic violence on children's functioning. Although results are somewhat inconclusive regarding children's social, cognitive, and physical development, findings of recently conducted investigations, when combined and compared with the previously reviewed…

Describes and analyzes the ways in which a contact center works to both support and supervise meetings between children and a parent from whom they are parted, focusing on private law proceedings and the divorce/separation context. Identifies the knowledge, skills, and values contributing to good practice, and informs debates about training,…

Annotates four books related to child welfare: (1) "Removing Risks from Children: Shifting the Paradigm" (Alma J. Carten, James R. Dumpson); (2) "Turmoil to Turning Points: Building Hope for Children in Crisis Placements" (Richard Kagan); (3) "Wrongful Adoption: Law, Policy, and Practice" (Madelyn Freundlich, Lisa…

This study looked at intergenerational relations according to gender, ethnicity, and acculturation, as aspects of immigrant family life of Asian American college students (N=342). Variations were found in intergenerational tensions over expectations regarding educational and career concerns, and dating and marriage issues. Gender was a factor but…

A study interviewed 8,548 participants in the Ontario Mental Health Supplement about parental psychiatric history and childhood physical and sexual abuse. Respondents reporting a parental history of depression, mania, or schizophrenia had a two to threefold increase in the rates of physical, sexual, or any abuse. (Contains references.) (CR)