Three early papers on self-neglect

TY - JOUR

T1 - Three early papers on self-neglect

AU - Martineau, Stephen

PY - 2020/12/2

Y1 - 2020/12/2

N2 - Purpose: We examine three English research papers on self-neglect, from 1957 and 1966 (articles by Patricia Shaw and Duncan Macmillan in Nottingham), and 1975 (the Diogenes Syndrome article in The Lancet drawing on work from Brighton). We discuss them in the context of more recent thinking and the statutory framework in England. Design/methodology/approach: In reviewing the three research papers, developments and points of continuity in the field of self-neglect were identified and are discussed in this paper. Findings: In light of the findings of the three articles, the present paper traces some of the classificatory refinements in this field that have taken place since the papers were published, notably in respect of hoarding and severe domestic squalor. Some of the difficulties in making judgements about behaviour thought to breach societal norms are described, and the challenges practitioners face in intervening in cases, particularly where the person concerned is refusing assistance, are examined. Originality/value: By drawing on the historical research context, the paper contributes to our current understanding of the field of self-neglect.

AB - Purpose: We examine three English research papers on self-neglect, from 1957 and 1966 (articles by Patricia Shaw and Duncan Macmillan in Nottingham), and 1975 (the Diogenes Syndrome article in The Lancet drawing on work from Brighton). We discuss them in the context of more recent thinking and the statutory framework in England. Design/methodology/approach: In reviewing the three research papers, developments and points of continuity in the field of self-neglect were identified and are discussed in this paper. Findings: In light of the findings of the three articles, the present paper traces some of the classificatory refinements in this field that have taken place since the papers were published, notably in respect of hoarding and severe domestic squalor. Some of the difficulties in making judgements about behaviour thought to breach societal norms are described, and the challenges practitioners face in intervening in cases, particularly where the person concerned is refusing assistance, are examined. Originality/value: By drawing on the historical research context, the paper contributes to our current understanding of the field of self-neglect.

KW - Care Act 2014

KW - Hoarding

KW - Legal

KW - Safeguarding

KW - Self-neglect

KW - Severe domestic squalor

UR - http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?scp=85096999092&partnerID=8YFLogxK

U2 - 10.1108/JAP-07-2020-0023

DO - 10.1108/JAP-07-2020-0023

M3 - Article

SN - 1466-8203

JO - Journal of Adult Protection

JF - Journal of Adult Protection

ER -