Treatment of Child Abuse: Common Ground for Mental Health, Medical, and Legal Practitioners (2nd Edition) edited by R. M.Reece, R. F.Hanson and J.Sargent, John Hopkins University Press, Baltimore, 2014. 392pp. ISBN 978-1-4214-1273-3 (Pbk), £42.00

Abstract

The book is thoughtfully divided into easy-to-navigate sections. The chapters are organised well and the language used makes it accessible. It begins with succinct, but thoroughly adequate information on the practical aspects of identification, reporting and referral. Of particular quality is the subsequent chapter addressing psychosocial assessment, including a helpful section on associated post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms that may mimic other mental health conditions. ‘Succinct, but thoroughly adequate information on the practical aspects of identification, reporting and referral’ The book addresses evidence-based treatments including trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy and parent-child interaction therapy. Importantly, there are chapters on interventions for families, schools and foster carers. The theory, evidence base, advantages and limitations are all explored in great detail. The book also covers medical treatment, both short and long term for sexual and physical abuse, neglect and maltreatment. It looks at the role and training of paediatricians and the role of child abuse paediatricians. The chapter on the importance of therapist and family engagement was particularly strong, and much of the content was also relevant to child and adolescent psychiatry. I found the chapters on gene-environment interplay and resilience particularly interesting, although they were the most complex and least accessible. The book ends on a short chapter regarding legal implications which appeared sufficient for a clinician, but not necessarily a legal practitioner. Of note is the fact that this book is American based, and therefore occasionally is not relevant to UK practice. Overall, however, this book provides a comprehensive look at child abuse. It is well organised, covering most aspects in a clear, easy-to-read format. The range and depth covered are a remarkable achievement and one could see its usefulness in any setting where abused children are considered. ‘The range and depth covered are a remarkable achievement’