Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026

An Experimental Analysis of Children's Ability to Provide a False Report about a Crime
Published on: May 3, 2016
The social construction of child abuse
Abstract:
Research on child abuse has traditionally focused on incidence, causes, and prevention and treatment. One facet overlooked is that abuse is social deviance, and is the product of social labeling. Employing the perspective of labeling theory, this paper proposes that causes of abuse are products of social definitions applied by gatekeepers charged with identifying children injured by their caretakers. Gaps in our knowledge of child abuse are pointed out, and suggestions for empirical research are offered.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
The Sense of Self: Reflected Self-Appraisal and Social Comparison
Fundamental Attribution Error
Bullying
Conduct Disorder
Social Foundations of Self II: The Generalized Other
Relationship with Other Adult Family Members and Siblings

