As social workers, one of the most difficult things we'll face when undertaking child abuse assessments is discovering that child neglect or abuse is actually taking place. In the case of the child, Johnny X, we are uncertain of the type and the extent of abuse that is taking place in the home. There are symptoms of physical abuse, but there are also considerable signs of emotional abuse. .
Working within the social systems theory, we can see that the community framework and its support systems and resources impact parent-child relationships and are strongly associated with child maltreatment. Abuse and neglect of children occurs in families from all walks of life and across all socioeconomic, religious, and ethnic groups. There's no single, identifiable cause of child maltreatment. Reported cases are more likely to be linked with lower socioeconomic status although there is no particular link with racial or ethnic groups. .
During economic hard times, the number of families that experience difficulty caring for their children increases, as does involvement with the child and family welfare system (Hughes, 1995, as cited in Adams, Cameron, & Coady, 2007, p. 36). In addition, economic hardships for families are more prevalent in countries with lower levels of social provision (Phipps, 1999, as cited in Adams et al, 2007, p. 36). .
Structures, laws and policies need to be changed. Examples include affordable housing, accessibility of employment insurance, access to health care, education and training, and the lack of living wages from work. Societal issues like racism and sexism can also contribute to poverty. Governments can be pro-active in limiting harm or helping groups to become more self-sufficient. Government action is also the expression of our collective will to do something about poverty.
By implementing policy with initiatives that address these different factors of poverty, governments can make a real impact for people living in poverty.