Broken Homes: A Study of Family Desertion and its Social Treatment

The book opens a candid look at a problem that has long troubled society: the abandonment of wives and children by their husbands. Drawing on reports from New York’s charitable agencies and the experiences of early caseworkers, it maps how social officials moved from simple rescue efforts to a more systematic, law‑focused response. The opening chapters reveal the frustrations of those first trying to balance compassion with limited resources, while also exposing the social attitudes that shaped early interventions.

From there the narrative shifts to the emergence of a newer, more nuanced professional philosophy. By tracing the gradual adoption of relationship‑based analysis, flexible treatment plans, and a belief in people’s capacity for change, the work shows how modern social workers approach desertion today. Filled with real‑world examples and practical guidelines, it offers a valuable window into the evolving art of case work, encouraging listeners to consider both historical lessons and contemporary strategies for supporting vulnerable families.