Maltreating Families: A Look at Siblings

Abstract

Maltreating families are commonly believed to neglect or abuse a single child as a scapegoat. A family systems perspective, however, would suggest that dysfunction in one part of the family would be reflected in other parts. This study finds that reported abused children and their siblings are similar in stressful life experiences, quality of the home environment, reported behavior problems, and the experience of maltreatment. The implications for treatment and social policy are discussed.