ABSTRACT
Individuals with a history of childhood maltreatment are disproportionately represented among clinical populations who seek out or are required to seek social work services (Davies, 2003; Sachs-Ericsson, Blazer, Plant, & Arnow, 2005). In fact, in some settings like addictions, domestic violence and mental health, research suggests that the majority of clients will have experienced some sort of victimization in childhood (Dixon, Browne, & Hamilton-Giachritsis, 2005; Meeyoung, Farkas, Minnes, & Singer, 2007; Spatz-Widom, Marmorstein, & RaskinWhite, 2006). In this chapter, the definition and nature of childhood maltreatment is examined, as are the long-term consequences. The relationship between adult problems in living and a history of childhood victimization also is discussed. Using a case illustration, principles of effective social work practice with clients with histories of childhood maltreatment are identified, and this includes ethical considerations.
