Community Child Health is designed to orient physicians, nurses, social workers, public health officers, and allied professionals to the world of children and to help them devise practice styles and priorities in concert with the current needs of children. Palfrey's central thesis is that society has lost sight of children, and, as a result, we have done a very poor job of structuring the environment to nurture them as they grow. Ironically, communities are breaking apart just at the time when families need them the most, leaving children vulnerable, confused, and isolated. The health consequences include poor school performance, behavioral problems, injuries, early sexuality, drug and alcohol use, weapons possession, homicide, and suicide.
The medical professions can have a major impact in reversing these social and health problems. Palfrey has designed this book to equip such professionals with the conceptual frame, data base, and practical tips and tools that will result in improved results in the growth and development of children. It is an advocate's manual, a cookbook for the program planner, and a guide for the child health professional seeking improvements in community child care.