Child Advocacy and Clinical Child Psychology

Reviewed the historical roots of the child advocacy movement in the context of the changing conceptualization of childhood through the ages. Four historical phases are apparent in the evolution of child advocacy. The current practice of child advocacy, although diverse in its application, is characterized by a clear definition, an understanding of underlying assumptions about its practice, and increasingly sophisticated skills and strategies used to accomplish its goals. Clinical child psychology can contribute to child advocacy efforts through its empirical research and theoretical conceptualization of children's developmental needs and abilities.