Mothering Through Domestic Violence

Contents: Acknowldegements. 1. Introduction. 2. Walking on Eggshells - Mothering Through Domestic Violence. 3. Resisting Mother Blaming. 4. Domestic Violence and the Maltreatment of Children. 5. Children Living with Domestic Violence - Impacts and Resilience. 6. Re-asserting Power and Control in Child Visitation and Contact. 7. Mother Blaming in the Courts 8. Improving Safety for Women and Children after Separation. 9. From Blaming Mothers to Providing Positive Support - The Role of Welfare Agencies. 10. Conclusion - Linking the Three Planets. References. Subject Index. Author Index.

This volume is addition to a number of books from this publisher that consider domestic violence. Six studies in all are considered, centred on different aspects of domestic violence, child abuse and child contact with their (violent) fathers. It is very useful to have the findings of these studies provided collectively in one volume, together with an examination of the major themes from the studies and how these inter-relate.

The structure of the book and its chapters mean the text is accessible and easy-to-read, while the use of quotations and case studies is helpful. The key message, that individual needs (of women and children) should form the basis of risk assessment and safety planning, is well covered. There is also welcome evidence of the factors that can assist in supporting mothers and their children, plus useful suggestions about how social workers and other practitioners might be able to provide useful assistance.