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Understanding and working with adolescent neglect: perspectives from research, young people and professionals
Author(s) -
Hicks Leslie,
Stein Mike
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
child and family social work
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.912
H-Index - 57
eISSN - 1365-2206
pISSN - 1356-7500
DOI - 10.1111/cfs.12072
Subject(s) - neglect , psychological intervention , psychology , qualitative research , developmental psychology , child neglect , welfare , human factors and ergonomics , medicine , poison control , child abuse , psychiatry , sociology , political science , social science , environmental health , law
This paper provides an overview of research about adolescent neglect funded by the D epartment of C hildren, S chools and F amilies (now the D epartment for E ducation) and the D epartment of H ealth. The paper examines what is known from literature about the causes of adolescent neglect, together with its potential consequences for well‐being. Drawing on qualitative data, the concept of neglect is explored from the perspectives of young people themselves and the professionals who work with them. Consideration is given to examples of interventions and preventative models geared towards addressing adolescent neglect. Key findings indicate that there is a need for both a re‐examination of current definitions of neglect in the light of age‐related distinctions and perspectives, and a fuller understanding of the particular needs of adolescents who are experiencing neglect. Additionally, the research highlights that there is a lack of research knowledge about neglectful parenting and the behaviour of young people, as well as limited understanding of interventions with neglected adolescents. Key themes from the research are discussed in terms of their implications for future practice, policy and research in relation to working to improve the welfare of neglected young people.