Safeguarding childhood

"This text by one of Britain's leading commentators provides an incisive and compelling analysis of how thinking about child abuse has changed in recent years. Nigel Parton examines the new policies systems and practices which are being put in place to remedy what is widely recognised as an intolerable situation. In the process, he argues, a fundamental shift is underway in the relationships between children, parents, professionals and the state. He suggests that we are witnessing the emergence of the preventive state, geared to pre-empt child welfare problems before they occur through ever closer regulation and surveillance." "Original and wide-ranging, Safeguarding Childhood is essential reading for students and researches in the fields of social work, social policy, early childhood studies and sociology. It will also be of considerable interest to childcare professionals and practitioners."--Jacket.