Gnerations of maltreated children and multiagency care in one kindred

Rigorously collated information on 40 members of one kindred (not previously studied) and on their spouses and cohabitees, revealed that massive multiagency support had failed fully to ascertain and prevent extensive child abuse over at least three generations. Furthermore, five other large battering families have been closely associated (by cohabitation) with this kindred. Severe behaviour disorder (starting with hyperactivity and uncontrollability) occurred in at least three-quarters of the children, and usually progressed to adult criminality. The second most common disorder was subnormal intelligence, which crucially incapacitated the rearing abilities of young mothers who were associated with antisocial cohabitees. Seven children died in infancy. The Welfare State has done little to help the plight of surviving children in this kindred.