Child Abuse
Articles tagged with Child Abuse
Child abuse may be connected to changes in development, body regulation
Early institutional care lowers life expectancy
A long-term study finds that children in infant care institutions had a 48% higher risk of mortality and shorter life expectancy than those raised at home. The research highlights the importance of affection and stimulation in early childhood, revealing lifelong consequences for those who experienced institutional care.
Casting a long shadow: Childhood sexual abuse linked to cancer in older adults
A new study from the University of Toronto links childhood sexual abuse to a significantly higher likelihood of cancer later in life. Researchers found that those who experienced childhood sexual abuse had about twice the odds of reporting a cancer diagnosis compared to the general population.
Support from a trusted adult in childhood can mitigate the long-term impact of abuse
A study published in the Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment & Trauma found that feeling safe with a trusted adult during childhood reduces the risk of depression, chronic disease, and poor health. The presence of protective adults significantly mitigates the long-term impact of abuse.
Unveiling a ‘conspiracy of silence’ surrounding Johnny Kitagawa’s crimes of sexual abuse
A recent study examines the mechanisms behind Japan's prolonged silence on Johnny Kitagawa's crimes, characterizing it as a 'conspiracy of silence.' The research reveals that structural factors, including media networks and government policies, contributed to this silence. Key findings include the avoidance of negative coverage by tele...
Early life stress linked to long-lasting digestive issues
A new study suggests that early life stress during pregnancy and early childhood can lead to long-term digestive issues, including gut pain and motility challenges. The research found that early life stress can shape the development of gut-brain communication, contributing to gastrointestinal symptoms in both mice and humans.
Admissions for child maltreatment decreased during first phase of COVID-19 pandemic, but ICU admissions increased later
Hospital admissions for child maltreatment declined by 31% during the initial lockdown of the COVID-19 pandemic but rebounded to pre-pandemic levels after restrictions were lifted. However, rates of admission to intensive care units (ICUs) increased by 80% after the 16-week period of restricted healthcare access.
Nearly half of Australian adults experienced childhood trauma, increasing mental illness risk by 50 percent
A University of Sydney-led study found that 42% of Australian adults experienced traumatic events as children, leading to a 50% higher risk of developing mental health or substance use disorders. Childhood trauma is linked to chronic physical health conditions and can have lifelong consequences.
Child welfare system involvement may improve diagnosis of developmental delays
A study found that child welfare system involvement in Pennsylvania increased the likelihood of developmental delay diagnoses for infants and toddlers, particularly those in foster care. Early intervention services were also more accessible to these children.
In-home gun homicides of children has more than doubled since 2010
In-home gun homicides of children have more than doubled since 2010, with nearly two-thirds of child victims aged 12 and under killed at home. The study found that these cases are often linked to intimate partner violence and child abuse, with parents being the most common assailants.
Understanding the profound yet hidden effects of neglect on white matter structures
Researchers found neglected children had abnormalities in critical brain regions, including right corticospinal tract and superior longitudinal fasciculus, linked to behavioral difficulties. These findings provide objective markers for identifying children affected by neglect.
Childhood verbal abuse shows similar impact to adult mental health as physical abuse
A large intergenerational study of over 20,000 participants found that childhood verbal abuse has a significant and long-lasting impact on adult mental health, comparable to physical abuse. The study suggests that verbal abuse may be overlooked but can still exert toxic stress on children's neurobiological development.
New research: Specific genetics linked to risk of childhood maltreatment
A large Danish study shows that children with a high genetic risk for ADHD are more likely to experience severe neglect and childhood maltreatment. This risk is also influenced by parental mental illness, with girls generally exposed to more maltreatment than boys.
How social media can help abuse survivors heal
A study from UT Arlington found that social media platforms can play a life-saving role for young people navigating difficult circumstances at home. Young adults who experienced child abuse and neglect relied on social media to cope with trauma, access information and connect with others.
Understanding childhood maltreatment and its effect on biological aging
A study published in PLOS One found that childhood maltreatment speeds up biological aging and affects social behavior, particularly in reduced eye contact with human faces. This accelerated aging is linked to increased emotional and behavioral difficulties.
Childhood maltreatment can affect body trust
A meta-analysis of 17 studies found a link between childhood maltreatment and reduced body trust, particularly in those who experienced emotional abuse or neglect. This can impair emotion regulation, perception of one's own needs, and stress processing, increasing the risk of mental disorders such as anxiety and depression.
UK child sexual abuse survivors lack support - report
A new report reveals that over half of UK child sexual abuse survivors have not received support, highlighting a critical gap in local systems. The survey also found that many victims were first subjected to abuse at a young age and struggled with disclosure and healing.
The Lancet: Nearly half of sexual abuse first happens at age 15 or younger
According to a study published in The Lancet, nearly one out of five women and one out of seven men aged 20 and older faced sexual violence as a child. The global SVAC prevalence remained high at about 19% for women and almost 15% for men.
Parents with alcohol-related diagnoses are twice as likely to maltreat children
A systematic review of child maltreatment found that parents and caregivers with alcohol-related diagnoses were twice as likely to maltreat children. The study pooled data from twelve high-income countries and associated caregiver alcohol-related diagnoses with higher child maltreatment incidence.
Study: Artificial intelligence more accurately identifies child abuse
A new study found that artificial intelligence can better estimate the prevalence of physical abuse in children seen in emergency departments. The AI model correctly identified child abuse in over 35% of cases, outperforming traditional methods that relied solely on diagnostic codes entered by providers or administrative staff.
Breaking the cycle: unveiling how childhood trauma fuels parenting and abuse
A recent study by University of Fukui researchers found that impaired empathy in parents who experienced childhood trauma increases the risk of abusive parenting, perpetuating a cycle of abuse. The study highlights the importance of targeted interventions, such as mental health support and parenting programs, to break this cycle.
How Florida’s Guardian ad Litems build trust, bond with youth in foster care
A study explored how GALs form relationships with youth and the role of training in this process. Findings highlight the critical role of trust and suggest that enhanced training programs, including trauma-informed care and advanced communication skills, can empower GALs to build meaningful connections.
Adults abused as children twice as likely to develop health and mental health conditions
A new study published in Child Maltreatment found that adults who experienced childhood physical and sexual abuse had double the odds of developing health and mental health conditions. The presence of a protective adult in the home was associated with better long-term health outcomes among children who experienced abuse.
3 Ways to reduce child sexual abuse rates
A new study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that coordinated, community-wide primary prevention efforts can significantly reduce child sexual abuse rates. The study showed a 17% decrease in substantiated cases and a 34% drop in unsubstantiated cases compared to a control group.
Computing leaders propose measures to combat tech-facilitated intimate partner violence, human trafficking, and child exploitation
The Association for Computing Machinery's Technology Policy Council issues brief calls on policymakers and tech companies to address tech abuse in intimate partner violence, human trafficking, and child exploitation. The report highlights disturbing statistics and recommends expanding laws and regulations to protect users.
Adult children of divorced parents at higher risk of stroke
A recent study by researchers from the University of Toronto found that older adults who experienced parental divorce during childhood have a 60% higher odds of stroke. The study controlled for known risk factors and still showed a strong association between parental divorce and stroke.
The power of cinema: Study shows film intervention reduces violence against children
A McMaster University study finds that screenings of a locally-produced film about parenting reduced physical violence against children by nine percent. The film was created with and by refugees and migrants, making it an authentic and effective tool for promoting positive parenting practices.
University of Calgary nursing study envisions child trauma treatment through a Marvel and DC lens
Researchers applied ACE questionnaires to select Marvel and DC characters, finding that childhood trauma does not determine heroism or villainy. The study suggests that using fictional characters can help address child abuse and trauma in a non-confrontational way.
In Marvel and DC movies, rough childhoods do not doom characters to become villains
A new study of 33 Marvel and DC films reveals that adverse childhood experiences (ACE) scores have no bearing on whether a character is a hero or villain. The research highlights the use of unconventional approaches to explore trauma and child development in popular media.
Study shows connection between childhood maltreatment and disease in later life
A recent study published in Helion found that individuals who experienced childhood abuse, neglect, or domestic abuse were at a significantly higher risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. The study used a database of over 16 million Electronic Health Records to analyze the incidence rates of these diseases over a 26-yea...
Global prevalence of sexual violence against children
A systematic review and meta-analysis highlights the alarming burden of child sexual violence worldwide. The findings underscore the urgent need to improve data collection efforts, particularly in under-researched regions and among boys.
Physical neglect as damaging to children’s social development as abuse
A new study by University of Illinois professors Christina Kamis and Molly Copeland found that physical neglect disrupts all three dimensions of children's structural peer relationships: sociality, popularity, and social network cohesion. Maltreated youth are less social, more withdrawn, and have fragmented relationships.
Racial and ethnic disparities in child abuse identification and inpatient treatment
A study found significant racial disparities in child abuse identification, with Black children suspected at higher rates. The findings highlight the need for further research to understand these disparities and reduce them in child abuse treatment.
Police investigating child abuse have higher rates of depression and anxiety
A study by the University of Southampton found that police investigators of Child Sexual Abuse Material experience high levels of depression and anxiety, with feelings of betrayal by colleagues and institutions being a significant predictor. In contrast, feeling successful and supported at work can act as a powerful buffer to these out...
Who is most vulnerable to commercial sexual exploitation?
A study of 1,264 case files found that adult survivors of commercial sexual exploitation had high rates of mental health diagnoses and lower educational achievements. Childhood abuse, history of arrest, and age at entry were also associated with longer exploitation periods.
Unregulated experts can cause harm to children in family courts in England and Wales
A UCL study reveals that unregulated experts appointed by family courts in England and Wales have caused devastating harm to children, separating them from their mothers and forcing them to live with abusive fathers. The 'alienation' belief system has become a legal weapon that punishes and controls those who speak up about abuse.
Prevalence of adverse childhood experiences in child population samples
This study reveals prevalent adverse childhood experiences among children, including abuse and neglect, with notable disparities across demographics. Early identification and community interventions can reduce ACEs and mitigate future health consequences.
Childhood neglect associated with stroke, COPD, cognitive impairment, and depression
A new study from the University of Toronto finds that childhood neglect is associated with a range of mental and physical health problems in adulthood. The presence of a supportive adult and higher socioeconomic status largely attenuate this relationship.
Trauma takes its toll at the end of life
A recent study by UC San Francisco and the University of Michigan found that childhood trauma can lead to increased pain, depression, and loneliness in older adults. Participants who experienced more traumatic events were more likely to experience these symptoms during their final years.
Protect the child, save the adult: An opportunity to cut welfare costs by nearly 40%
Research from University of South Australia finds that individuals who experienced child abuse or neglect are three times more likely to receive government income support payments. Cumulative income support payments for those with no protection contact were $38,570, while those in out-of-home care received $181,743.
Developmental supports crucial for young victims of child abuse
A new study highlights the importance of providing developmental supports to young victims of serious child abuse before they start school. Researchers found that children who were removed from their homes and entered out-of-home care were more likely to be developmentally delayed in some areas, but also vulnerable in other areas. The ...
Researchers explore the neurobiological basis of child abuse by maltreating mothers
A study using diffusion tensor imaging found reduced white-matter structural features in maltreating mothers' brains, linked to impulsivity and voluntary movement control. The findings suggest potential physiological causes underlying child abuse and represent a crucial step towards developing effective prevention strategies.
European best-practice recommendations for investigative interviews with children launched
The European Association of Psychology and Law has launched a white paper with 10 key recommendations to enhance the validity, reliability, and child-friendliness of forensic interviews. The guidelines aim to standardize interviewing methods and warn against harmful practices.
Weighted blankets do not improve sleep among children with a history of maltreatment
A recent study by University of Houston sleep expert Candice Alfano found that weighted blankets do not improve sleep for children who have experienced various types of maltreatment, including abuse or neglect. Despite the popularity of weighted blankets as a sleep aid, research has been lacking on their effectiveness in this population.
Childhood maltreatment responsible for up to 40 percent of mental health conditions
A study reveals childhood maltreatment causes an estimated 41% of suicide attempts, 35% of self-harm cases, and 21% of depression in Australia. The researchers advocate for policy-driven prevention and interventions to address childhood abuse and neglect.
New MSU research finds paid family leave helps prevent child abuse
A new study by Michigan State University researchers found that state-paid family leave policies can help prevent child abuse. The study compared four states with implemented paid family leave to those without it and found a statistically significant reduction in infant maltreatment rates.
Maltreated children are three times more likely to develop substance use disorders in adulthood
A new study found that maltreated children are three times more likely to be admitted to hospital for alcohol and substance use disorders by the age of 40. The likelihood of hospital admission was higher among those with substantiated notifications for sexual abuse or emotional abuse.
Users actively seek and share child sexual abuse material on Tor – but help is available to those willing to stop
A recent study on the Tor network found that one in five onion domains shared child sexual abuse material. The researchers also discovered that users sought CSAM through popular search engines and found that viewing violent material correlates with addiction, while seeking help is often hindered by lack of resources.
USPSTF statement on primary care interventions to prevent child maltreatment
The USPSTF states that current evidence is insufficient to assess the benefits and harms of primary care interventions. Child maltreatment has profound effects on health, development, and survival throughout childhood and adulthood.
New study may broaden the picture of the consequences of childhood adversity
A new study from Karolinska Institutet has found a clear link between childhood adversity and the risk of mental illness later in life. The research suggests that genetics and environment play a significant role in contributing to adult psychiatric disorders, highlighting the need for targeted health care interventions within families ...
Urgent need for guidelines for the care of child victims of sexual abuse
Only half of European countries have national guidelines for treating child victims of sexual abuse, leading to unequal and potentially severe consequences. The existing guidelines are often outdated and fail to incorporate the latest scientific insights.
World’s largest childhood trauma study uncovers brain rewiring
A study of over 580 children found that childhood trauma disrupts neural networks involved in self-focus and problem-solving. The research suggests that trauma therapies should address not only thoughts but also the impact on the body, sense of self, emotional processing, and relationships.
After 7 years, alcohol control program still reduces child abuse
A neighborhood alcohol control project in Sacramento reduced total and alcohol-related foster care entries by 11.8% and 11.2%, respectively, seven years after implementation. The study suggests that environmental prevention efforts like SNAPP can have a positive impact for an extended period.
Childhood relationships, experiences may have good and bad effects on adult heart health
Research finds that stable caregiver relationships in childhood may increase optimal heart health, while adversity and abuse can lead to poor cardiovascular health. Lower income as an adult may also introduce additional adversity, making the relationship between caregiver-child adversity difficult to see.
Supportive, stable caregiving in childhood protects heart health in adulthood
Research reveals that stable and supportive caregiving during childhood can protect cardiovascular health later in life, contrary to previous findings on childhood adversity. The study analyzed over 2,000 participants and found that each additional unit score of caregiver warmth was associated with 11.7% higher odds of cardiovascular h...
When parents drink during Super Bowl, kids get harsh discipline
Parents who drank alcohol while watching the Super Bowl were more likely to use aggressive discipline on their children, according to a new study. The study found that mothers were particularly affected, and that drinking during special occasions like Valentine's Day had the opposite effect.
Health impacts of abuse more extensive than previously thought, research says
Research found elevated risks between intimate partner violence and childhood sexual abuse and various health conditions. Intimate partner violence was associated with increased risk of major depressive disorders, maternal abortion, and alcohol misuse, while childhood sexual abuse linked to increased risk of self-harm and alcohol use.
Study links childhood trauma to COVID-19 deaths, hospitalizations
A University of Pittsburgh study found a significant link between childhood trauma and higher odds of COVID-19 hospitalization and mortality in adulthood. Adults who reported higher levels of childhood adversity, such as abuse or neglect, were 12-25% more likely to be hospitalized or die from COVID-19.
Pediatric trauma more common during COVID-19 pandemic, especially for children in disadvantaged neighborhoods
Childhood trauma rates surged during the pandemic, with injuries from motor vehicle crashes and gunshot wounds rising disproportionately in socioeconomically deprived areas. The study highlights worsened pandemic-related stressors exacerbating an already severe problem.