Gwyther Reese, Mike Stein, Leslie Hicks, and Sarah Gorin: Adolescent Neglect: Research, Policy and Practice

Child neglect is a subject that has been repeatedly explored. However, as Reese, Stein, Hicks, and Gorin point out in their book, Adolescent Neglect: Research, Policy, and Practice, there is an unfortunate “neglect of neglect” when it comes to the topic of adolescent neglect (p. 10). Adolescents, as a unique group, are often overlooked and therefore, their needs remain unaddressed. In the book, the authors bring together the existing research relating to adolescent neglect, both in the UK and elsewhere, while briefly evaluating key overall messages. At the conclusion of each chapter, they provide their own analysis of potential means for addressing particular issues in relation to adolescent neglect. In addition, they pose questions to stimulate thinking with regard to these issues. To the reader, it may seem that Reese, Stein, Hicks, and Gorin hastily form conclusions and make weak connections with regard to adolescent-specific issues, only basing judgments on their knowledge of general child neglect issues. However, Adolescent Neglect: Research, Policy, and Practice provides a solid introduction to general issues surrounding adolescent neglect and provides a firm foundation for encouraging broader research ideas. …