Topic: Interventions for Abusive Behavior

Definition for Interventions for Abusive Behavior:

Interventions for Abusive Behavior are defined by the CEBC as programs that address a parent's or caregiver's abusive treatment of a child or adolescent. The abusive behavior may be one or more of the following types as defined by the CEBC for this topic area:

• Physical abuse: Nonaccidental physical injury (ranging from minor bruises to severe fractures or death) as a result of punching, beating, kicking, biting, shaking, throwing, stabbing, choking, hitting (with a hand, stick, strap, or other object), burning, or otherwise harming a child or adolescent
• Sexual abuse: Activities perpetrated on a child or adolescent such as fondling their genitals, penetration, incest, rape, sodomy, indecent exposure, and exploitation through prostitution or the production of pornographic materials
• Emotional/Psychological abuse: A pattern of behavior that impairs a child's or adolescent's emotional development or sense of self-worth, such as constant criticism, threats, or rejection, as well as withholding love, support, or guidance

This topic area is focused on interventions to stop the abusive behavior and prevent re-abuse. Several related topic areas have been reviewed by the CEBC, such as Anger Management Treatment (Adult) and Domestic/Intimate Partner Violence: Batterer Intervention Programs. Programs in these areas will not be listed in this topic area unless they meet the criteria below.

Interventions designed solely to address the needs of abused children are not covered in this topic area; these interventions may be found in the Trauma Treatment (Child & Adolescent) topic area.

The following link gives more information on this topic area as it is defined by the U.S. government: https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/can/defining/federal/

• Target population: Abusive parents or caregivers
• Services/types that fit: Typically outpatient services with individual, group, or family formats; services may be delivered in the home and may include assessment, case planning, mental health services, case management, education, and/or skill building
• Delivered by: Child welfare staff, mental health professionals, or trained paraprofessionals
• In order to be included: Program must specifically target stopping child or adolescent abuse and preventing recurrence as a measurable goal
• In order to be rated: There must be research evidence (as specified by the Scientific Rating Scale) that examines abuse-related outcomes such as reductions of recurrence of maltreatment or outcomes for parents or caregivers such as changes in abusive behavior and related parenting practices (e.g., harsh parenting).

Downloadable Topic Area Summary