One of the world's leading experts on child maltreatment will bring his latest research findings to Hamilton to mark October as Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Dr. David Finkelhor will join with local researcher Dr. Harriet MacMillan and an audience of professionals, students, parents and interested citizens to explore prevention strategies and emerging themes, including Internet predation and parental supports, at an educational symposium on Oct. 30. The event is presented by the Community Child Abuse Council, the Catholic Children's Aid Society of Hamilton, and the Children's Aid Society of Hamilton.

Prevention strategies

Dr. Finkelhor is a respected author and researcher from the University of New Hampshire where he is director of the Crimes Against Children Research Center, a professor of sociology, and the co-director of the University's Family Research Laboratory. His keynote address will examine cutting-edge prevention strategies and emerging research themes, including his work on Internet safety for children and vital supports for parents.

"To prevent these (Internet) crimes, we have to take on more awkward and complicated topics and start with an acceptance of the fact that some teens are curious about sex and looking for romance and adventure" said Dr. Finkelhor.

He will be joined by Dr. MacMillan from McMaster University/McMaster Children's Hospital for a rare discussion pairing two leading experts on one stage.

Dr. MacMillan's work has included the recently completed family connections study, evaluating the effectiveness of public health nurse home visitation in preventing the recurrence of child abuse and neglect.

Registration for the symposium is $65 Information is available from the Community Child Abuse Council at 905-523-1020, Ext. 12 or by visiting www.childabusecouncil.on.ca.

Proceeds from the event will support programs for victimized children and youth in Hamilton.