Still Blaming Parents? Describing the “Evidence Base” Underpinning Child Neglect Intervention Programs

Child neglect has historically been framed as a problem originating in the family. Recent efforts attempt to reframe neglect as a consequence of ecologically layered disadvantages or “overload.” However, it is unclear if this ecological focus is reflected in the research base backing neglect interventions. In this study we systematically reviewed articles describing interventions labeled as evidence-based and as targeting neglect, finding that few (11%; n = 5) addressed neglect as a distinct maltreatment type. Among these five articles, we documented the populations targeted by the interventions, along with the theoretical frameworks used. By identifying which participants researchers engaged and which contributing factors measured, we shed light on the underlying, often unnamed, theoretical models that currently inform evidence-based interventions. We highlight a stark divide between the recent framing of neglect as an outcome of ecological disadvantages and an evidence base for neglect interventions focused primarily on parental failures. Keywords: Evidence-based treatment, intervention research, content analysis, systematic review, neglect, ecological models