Child Abuse and the Politics of Care

This paper describes some of the powerful cultural ideologies which inform reactions to instances of sexual abuse at childcare facilities. Subtle and persistent beliefs and assumptions about mothering, families, children, and sex influence social, political, and legal reaction to this problem. The author argues that these beliefs can distort our vision of reality and possibility. She proposes goals to keep in mind when evaluating legal, political, and social proposals which arise out of concern for the health and safety of children in childcare centers.