It Takes a Village to Raise a Child: Understanding and Expanding the Concept of the Village

This perspective article defines and discusses the concept of the village when working with families who are experiencing multiple adversities. The article starts with a discussion on what is meant generally by a village approach, followed by a historical overview of how families living in adversity have been defined and positioned. The need to move past a siloed, professional centric approach when working with families is then presented. Using a model of social connections, based on Bronfenbrenner's ecological theory, we then identify who the villagers might be. Some potential principles for how the village might work with families living with adversity are presented, along with two case studies, to demonstrate how these principles might be enacted. This perspective article provides an overview and discussion of the village concept, rather than present a definitive set of guidelines or recommendations.

Automated summary

This perspective article defines and discusses the concept of using a "village" approach when working with families facing multiple adversities. It provides an overview of the village concept and its historical background, and emphasizes the need to move past a siloed, professional centric approach in working with families. The article also presents potential principles for the village to work with families in adversity and includes two case studies as examples.