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Child abuse and neglect is a problem of vast proportions. Research on the effectiveness of child abuse and neglect prevention programs is critical for the provision of effective and efficient services. This paper provides a critical analysis of the research methodologies on child abuse and neglect prevention programs at the secondary and tertiary levels, as represented in the empirical literature. The paper begins by outlining the levels of prevention, and by describing child abuse and neglect prevention programs, as published in the empirical literature. This paper then goes on to describe and analyze the research conducted on these programs, to identify gaps in research, and to suggest ways to improve the rigor and validity of future research. Conclusions drawn include a call for greater quantity and quality of research on child abuse and neglect prevention programs, including the increased use of comparison groups, larger sample sizes, and a research design with follow-up measurement.
Copyright 2005 Alliance for Children and Families