On our screens : case studies of child abuse and neglect in popular entertainment

Abstract

Child protection agencies have a reputation of being “baby snatchers” and tearing families apart. These agencies do not have much representation in mainstream television or movies. Some popular television shows and movies show scenes and events that, by Indiana’s statues, could be considered child abuse or neglect. What is seen on our screens is not always explained to us viewers as inappropriate behavior or parenting when it may clearly be the case Examining two popular films and one television show, gives an idea to those outside of the child welfare system the processes that happen when child abuse or neglect is suspected. The examples show various forms of child abuse and neglect, whether provable or not, that are investigated in the state of Indiana.