Citation

Argles P. Br. J. Soc. Work 1980; 10(1): 33-42.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1980, Oxford University Press)

DOI

10.1093/oxfordjournals.bjsw.a054493

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Defects in the bonds of attachment between parent and child are put forward as a precursor in cases of child abuse and neglect. It is suggested that therapeutic work with such families should be focussed on the re-establishment or strengthening of these bonds, if they are found to exist. Ways of determining their existence and building upon them are discussed.It is suggested that, with the safeguard of a regular and intensive contact with the family, separation can often be avoided. This allows an immediate start on the basic task of strengthening the bond, and avoids weakening it still further as a result of separation. A case example is given.