Social Isolation of Neglectful Families: A Review of Social Support Assessment and Intervention Models

Abstract

Child neglect is the most common form of child maltreatment reported to public Child Protective Services. Sufficient evidence exists that families who are socially isolated, experience loneliness, and lack social support in both rural and urban settings may be more prone to neglect than matched comparison groups. This article reviews the relationship between neglect and these factors and contrasts models for assessing and intervening with neglectful families. Results suggest that modest improvements in the parenting behavior of neglectful parents can be achieved through the following: (a) differential assessment; (b) a multiservice approach; (c) intense social contacts with a volunteer, lay therapist, or parent aide; (d) use of modeling, coaching, rehearsing, and feedback to improve social interaction skills; (e) development of personal networks; and (f) structured parenting and support groups for socialization, support, and social and parenting skill building.