It analyzes some of the historical, ideological, political, and cultural factors underlying current prevention policies, suggesting that this amalgam of diverse elements, most of them adopting a public health concept of prevention, is inadequate for formulating social welfare policy. An alternative model for conceptualizing deterrence and prevention is outlined. It is argued that child abuse prevention must involve a shift in basic approach to child welfare as well as child welfare system priorities. Recommended components of a preventive policy include a national policy providing opportunities for poor families to attain a reasonable standard of living; attention to families' need for relief from child care as well as preschool children's need for social and educational experiences; and the implementation of a national health care program that minimally provides a full range of perinatal health services. However, it is advised that if the general acceptance of violence in American life is not addressed, significant reductions in child abuse will not occur. Twenty-nine references are listed.