This book investigates the historical evolution of social policy concerning poverty and parenting in Britain. It examines how concepts like 'transmitted deprivation' have shaped policy responses, tracing the shift towards understanding these issues through the lens of social exclusion. The work analyzes the interplay between academic discourse, political ideologies, and practical policy implementation from the mid-20th century to the present day, drawing on a range of historical sources and policy documents.

The book is likely to be regarded as a significant academic contribution to the fields of social policy, sociology, and history. Its focus on the conceptual shifts in understanding poverty and parenting suggests a text that will appeal to scholars and policymakers interested in the long-term development of welfare states. The detailed historical analysis indicates a work that provides a robust framework for understanding contemporary challenges in social exclusion and poverty reduction.