Child Maltreatment Parental Assessments

Abstract

This chapter discusses child maltreatment and the relationship with methamphetamine use and interpersonal partner violence. It outlines the basic components of a Child Maltreatment Parental Assessment (CMPA), as well as the differences between forensic assessments and clinical assessments. In order to obtain a clear hypothesis of CMPAs, explanations of the concepts and terminology will be addressed. While states' definitions of child abuse and neglect may differ, child abuse is identified by all 50 states as physical, neglect, sexual, and emotional abuse. Within most state social service systems, child protection agencies are the primary referral source for CMPA in child maltreatment cases. State interventions include either protective custody of the child or family supervision of the case. Conducting CMPA is a complex and time-consuming endeavor. There is substantial pressure upon the forensic evaluator by the referring agency, courts, parents, and caregivers.