This best-selling text has been used by countless students, practitioners and researchers as a key reference on child protection issues. The book demystifies this complex and emotionally-charged area, outlining research, history, social policy and legislation, as well as the theory and practice underpinning child protection work.

Written by influential academics and practitioners, this updated edition looks at child protection practices in a global context and provides:

• The latest research and thinking on the causes of child abuse, including new insights from the field of attachment theory
  
• An updated overview of child protection practices, ranging from the 19th Century to the recent 'Baby P' tragedy
  
• Detailed analysis and coverage of the Munro review of child protection in England and the work of the Social Work Reform Board
  
• Insights into the difficulties in understanding risk and protective factors ? and suggestions for new ways of approaching and assessing this area

Using examples to highlight key discussions and points, this book will enhance the confidence, knowledge and skills of practitioners, supervisors and managers.