Welcome to the website for the APA’s Div. 37 (Society for Child and Family Policy and Practice) Section on Child Maltreatment. It is my honor and privilege to serve as the section president in 2021 and 2022. Our mission is to support and promote scientific inquiry, training, professional practice, and advocacy in the area of child maltreatment. The Section on Child Maltreatment is the only permanent organization within APA specifically developed to address issues related to child abuse and neglect. We welcome members and supporters from all divisions of APA, as well as other disciplines and non-APA members. It truly will take the entire proverbial village to solve the problem of maltreatment, and we welcome all to the table. With this support of this diverse set of colleagues, we are in a unique position to influence the field of child maltreatment research, training, practice, and advocacy.
At this time in history, our actions and efforts could not be more important. Between the deadly COVID-19 pandemic, relentless racial injustice, and deep political division, we have all been touched in some way. Moreover, the children and families at risk for or already affected by child maltreatment have become even harder to reach, and their lives more complex with economic insecurity, emotional stress, and physical isolation. What a critical time it is for us to draw upon hope and collective purpose to act on their behalf.
As 2021–2022 president, I aim to ensure that our work aligns with the APA Strategic Plan goals by:
- utilizing psychology to make a positive impact on critical societal issues;
- preparing the discipline and profession of psychology for the future;
- elevating the public’s understanding of, regard for, and use of psychology; and
- strengthening APA’s standing as an authoritative voice for psychology.
- Join the section (new information coming soon! First year is free for students).
- Volunteer or nominate yourself or a trusted colleague to serve as an officer on the board or Student Board.
- Serve as a liaison with other sections/divisions.
- Participate in early career professionals networking activities.
- Participate in listserv discussions.
- Submit an article sharing your research or practice or advocacy insights in the newsletter.
- Nominate a colleague or student for one of our awards recognizing excellence in research and practice.
- Attend section activities at APA convention.
- Join a Task Force on Child Maltreatment.
Karen Appleyard Carmody, PhD
