Connecting Research and Policy to Reduce Risk for Child Maltreatment: A Call to Action

Over the past five decades since the enactment of the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act, the field of child abuse and neglect (CAN) has benefitted from extensive research on the correlates and consequences of CAN, intergenerational transmission of risk, and evidence-based interventions. Studies have also shown the benefits of social policies that strengthen the safety net for vulnerable children and families. Despite these achievements, CAN remains a significant global public health problem. In this article, we draw on findings of our recently published book Pathways to Prevention: Connecting Research and Policy to Reduce Risk for Child Maltreatment to explore the challenges of advancing a public health response that prioritizes universal and upstream preventive interventions over targeted programs with limited scope. We call for closer alignment between research, policy, and practice that is grounded in a “blended” prevention model. We encourage readers to take an active role in advocating for more oversight and engagement by federal agencies and policymakers in building a foundation of policies to support family and child needs and prevent CAN.