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individuals are alike. A lot depends on the personality of the individual and his social
circumstances.
(f) The ecological perspective
Numerous models have been designed in an attempt to understand the dynamics
involved in child abuse. The ecological model is by far the most comprehensive, and
attempts to intergrate into a synthesis biological, psychological, individual and
sociological characteristics. The models view abuse as a multi-dimensional problem,
and was proposed by Garbarino (1977: 401) who derived it from Bronfenbrenner. This
perspective uses a systems approach and examines complex parent-child interactions,
intra and extra familial stress factors and the social and cultural systems which affect
family functioning. Garbarino (1977) emphasises the role of economic and support
systems, and their interaction in family life.
(g) The sociocultural model
The use of aggression and, in some cultures, violence, are qualities that are highly
valued. Many researchers are of the belief that abuse is related to cultural or religious
views which sanction the use of corporal punishment to instil fear, discipline,
conformity, etc. Corporal punishment is widely condoned in society, from the
microcosmic familial level up to the macrocosmic societal level. A smack, or lick of
the belt is seen as necessary, even compulsory on the part of the parent if he wants to
produce a well disciplined child. School teachers and headmasters, often did and still
do resort to canings to briog errant children into line, and likewise, the courts impose
canings for more trivial misdemeanours (Lally 1984 : 251).
Gil (1975 : 331) states that the main reason for abuse in America, is the cultural
attitude which permits the use of physical force in child-rearing. Wolfgang & Ferracuti
(1982) refer to sub-eultures of violence, i.e. smaller cultures within the larger culture,
in which the use of violence is widely accepted, and even viewed positively.