An unhealthy neglect? Examining the relationship between child health and gender in research and policy

This article examines health and social science research and literature in order to analyse the relationship between child health and gender. It contends that in general this is a neglected area, particularly in relation to the potential influence that gendered behavioural, cultural and psychological factors have on children's health. The lack of attention to gender in the development and implementation of child health policy is illustrated and analysed using the Department of Health's National Service Framework for Children, Young People and Maternity Services (2004) as an exemplar of contemporary child health policy. The article concludes with suggestions for future research, which could impact positively on policy and related practice, in terms of leading to a wider awareness of the impact gender can have on child health. Copyright © 2006 Critical Social Policy Ltd.