Child Removal Policy

1604 Words4 Pages

Domestic violence has a long historical presence in our society. Initially, it was viewed strictly as a family matter. It was an acceptable means for men to discipline their wives and children, who were regarded as little more than man’s property. There was a lack of, if any, legal ramifications for the abuser and, in fact, domestic violence had been previously sanctioned by English Common law (The National Center for Victims of Crime). As the issue infiltrated public consciousness, advocacy groups rose to the forefront and championed for the rights of abused victims. They demanded change, not only to the laws, but to the way victims and abusers are treated by law enforcement and legal institutions. As a result of these efforts, many changes have been successfully implemented. Progress has slowly been made on behalf of victim’s rights. However, the statistics remain disheartening. According to the National Center for Victims of Crime, one in every four women will experience domestic violence during their lifetime. In one year, 389,100 women and 78,180 men were victimized and, on average, three people a day are killed by an intimate partner. Even though the majority of victims are women, any person is in danger of becoming a victim themselves. Domestic violence has no boundaries. It does not distinguish between those who are rich or those that are poor. It does not discriminate based on one’s race, sexual orientation or religion. It crosses all age and gender barriers. It can happen to anyone, at any time, but the consequences can be far reaching. Like a stone skipped off the waters, domestic violence causes ripples that touch the lives of many. Not only are victims’ lives and the lives of their families, frie... ... middle of paper ... ...tial responses within child protective services: A longitudinal examination. Child Welfare, 89(3), 57-77. Mayes, R., & Llewellyn, G. (2009). What happens to parents with intellectual disability following removal of their child in child protection proceedings? Journal of Intellectual & Developmental Disability, 34(1), 92-95. doi:10.1080/13668250802688348 The National Center for Victims of Crime. Retrieved: 1/10/2012, from http://www.ncvc.org. The National Organization for Women. Stats. Retrieved: 1/10/2012, from: http://www.now.org. Osofsky, J.D. (1995). Children who witness domestic violence: The invisible victims. Social Policy Report, IX(3), 1-19. Winter, K. (2010). The perspectives of young children in care about their circumstances and implications for social work practice. Child & Family Social Work, 15(2), 186-195. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2206.2009.00658.x

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