University of Guilan (with the participation of the Iranian Association of Penal Law) Criminal Law Research 2322-2328 17 1 2026 06 22 A problem-solving approach to cases of child abuse by addicted parents A problem-solving approach to cases of child abuse by addicted parents 53 70 9230 10.22124/jol.2025.28027.2494 FA Zahra Rezapour PhD in Women's Studies, Tarbiat Modares University. Tehran, Iran. Mohammad Farajiha Associate Professor, Department of Criminal Law and Criminology, Faculty of Law, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran. Journal Article 2024 07 27 Empirical research indicates that traditional judicial approaches to child abuse cases are ineffective, often resulting in child separation, high recidivism rates, and an increasing caseload. This study aims to evaluate judicial responses to child abuse by addicted parents from the perspective of problem-solving principles. Data were collected through content analysis of 25 case files, in-depth interviews with 25 judicial and welfare practitioners, and semi-participant observation of seven court sessions. Findings reveal significant potential for adopting a problem-solving approach within Iran’s legal system. These capacities are evident in existing court laws and procedures, reflecting legislators’ growing willingness to incorporate therapeutic dimensions into the justice process. To fully realize this approach, the study highlights the need for judicial training, legal reforms, reduction of bureaucratic rigidity (statism), and strengthened collaboration between the judiciary and partner institutions such as social welfare organizations.<br /><br />Keywords: Child abuse, addicted parents, problem-solving approach, treatment-oriented court, judicial policies Empirical research indicates that traditional judicial approaches to child abuse cases are ineffective, often resulting in child separation, high recidivism rates, and an increasing caseload. This study aims to evaluate judicial responses to child abuse by addicted parents from the perspective of problem-solving principles. Data were collected through content analysis of 25 case files, in-depth interviews with 25 judicial and welfare practitioners, and semi-participant observation of seven court sessions. Findings reveal significant potential for adopting a problem-solving approach within Iran’s legal system. These capacities are evident in existing court laws and procedures, reflecting legislators’ growing willingness to incorporate therapeutic dimensions into the justice process. To fully realize this approach, the study highlights the need for judicial training, legal reforms, reduction of bureaucratic rigidity (statism), and strengthened collaboration between the judiciary and partner institutions such as social welfare organizations.<br /><br />Keywords: Child abuse, addicted parents, problem-solving approach, treatment-oriented court, judicial policies https://jol.guilan.ac.ir/article_9230_d05ea4f1193e6deb0161d2a800d28999.pdf