Articles tagged with Child Abuse
Researchers found alarmingly high attendance rates at hospital emergency departments for children, teens, and adult victims of child abuse and neglect. Children exposed to child maltreatment have substantially increased risk of attending emergency departments during childhood and early adulthood.
A new study found that childhood trauma is a significant risk factor for prescription opioid misuse among young adults. Participants who reported four or more adverse childhood experiences were nearly three times more likely to be at risk for opioid misuse, with a 13% higher likelihood compared to those with zero to three ACEs.
A new UniSA study is helping protect children from online predators by investigating language and behaviors used to gain unacquainted children's trust. The research aims to deliver new linguistic indicators to monitor, identify, and apprehend suspects.
A recent study reveals that child maltreatment is associated with altered oxytocin gene methylation, leading to atypical brain structures and function. This finding suggests a potential biological mechanism for targeting during adolescence to improve the lives of victims of childhood abuse.
A study found that prescription drug monitoring programs in states significantly reduced child maltreatment incidents, with significant declines in neglect and physical abuse cases. The implementation of PDMPs was particularly effective in reducing maltreatment among American Indian and Alaskan Native children.
A study of over 1,000 Spanish adults reveals that only 27.5% reported experiencing child sexual abuse, with alarmingly high rates among women and Gen Z individuals. The research identifies 10 types of abuse, including those involving technology.
A study found that adults with a history of childhood maltreatment, particularly sexual abuse, exhibit reduced brain connectivity in attention systems. Oxytocin treatment has been shown to increase connectivity, suggesting its potential as a treatment for PTSD and childhood trauma-related disorders.
A new study found that children who experienced sexual or physical abuse or neglect are more likely to die prematurely as adults. Adults who reported experiencing sexual abuse had a 2.6 times higher risk, while those who experienced physical abuse had a 1.7 times higher risk of premature death.
A recent study by University of Missouri-Columbia professor Linda Bullock found that infants of mothers with only one abusive partner had worse cognitive outcomes compared to those with multiple male partners, including some who were abusive. This suggests that the absence of support from a father figure can hinder a child's development.
A new study by CSU social psychologist Jennifer Harman finds that parental alienating behaviors closely resemble coercively controlling violence, intimate terrorism, and battery. The research highlights power imbalances in families affected by parental alienation, emphasizing the need to treat it similarly to other forms of abuse.
Adults in the child welfare system with substance misuse issues have higher scores on a trauma questionnaire than previously estimated for other adults and the general population. Children in these families also experience more trauma, with trauma scores 27% higher than those in the juvenile justice system.
A national study from the University of New Hampshire found that children who witness abuse of a brother or sister by a parent experience similar levels of trauma as those witnessing violence against another parent. This exposure is linked to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and anger.
Research reveals that young adults with ADHD are 69% more likely to develop a substance use disorder than their peers without ADHD. More than one-quarter of those with ADHD also experience major depression.
A study funded by Channel 7 Children's Research Foundation identifies social contexts, supports and systems that helped young adults reject domestic violence. Researchers aim to provide evidence-based information to inform initiatives to encourage healthy relationships.
US children from marginalized groups are more likely to experience CPS investigations, with high rates found in Black and American Indian/Alaska Native populations. The study estimates that over half of all US counties have a risk of at least 60% for these groups by age 18.
A new genetic cause, unrelated to OI, has been identified as causing infantile fractures in a child with EDS hypermobility type. The discovery may help prevent misdiagnosis of non-accidental trauma and improve treatment options for children with this condition.
Research suggests that parents with a history of childhood trauma may struggle with emotion regulation, which can harm their children's emotional development. The study found that boys are more vulnerable to emotional regulation difficulties when their parents also struggled with emotion regulation.
This survey study estimated US children and adolescents who received medical care due to assault, abuse, or violence. The study found that approximately 9% of children aged 2-17 experienced violence-related injury or death.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, a significant increase in child abuse hotline inquiries was observed, with a notable rise in calls from previously unscreened individuals. The study suggests that this shift may be attributed to increased isolation and reduced supervision among children.
A new study from the University of South Australia reveals that most cases of child maltreatment occur within intergenerational cycles, with 83% of substantiated cases involving mothers who experienced abuse. The study highlights the urgent need for better support for victims and their children to disrupt this cycle.
A refined screening tool called TEN-4-FACESp can improve earlier recognition of child abuse in young children with bruising. The tool reliably signals high risk for abuse when bruising appears on specific body regions.
A study found that children exposed to abuse before age 11 and those exposed to both childhood and adolescence are more likely to develop conduct problems. The early-onset persistent group developed conduct problems in childhood, while the adolescence-onset group developed them in adolescence.
Researchers discovered that resilient women describe their sense of living as a dynamic, ongoing process involving control, personal resources, social relationships, and acceptance. The study highlights the importance of societal support and accessible services to help young women with similar experiences.
A new study suggests that child abuse cases surged during the pandemic, despite initial declines in ER visits and hospital admissions. Researchers found little difference in the severity of injuries compared to pre-pandemic years, suggesting physical abuse may have decreased across all severity levels.
New research documents how stringent FGM safeguarding measures are leaving families feeling racially profiled, criminalised and stigmatised. The study proposes a series of national recommendations to address FGM in a more compassionate and inclusive way.
A 10% increase in the Earned Income Tax Credit led to a 9% decrease in annual reports of child neglect made to child welfare agencies. The study highlights the importance of social policies on health and suggests that violence prevention can be an added benefit.
Children under 3 years old presenting with rib fractures are 77% likely to be abused; those under 18 months with humeral fractures show similar results. Diagnostic evaluation for abuse is recommended in these cases to minimize morbidity and mortality.
The US child welfare system has become bogged down in unnecessary investigations and child removals, disproportionately targeting poor African American families. Most reports of neglect are actually about manifestations of poverty, and removing children from their families undermines the ability to focus on providing services.
A world-first study from the University of South Australia reveals that young people who experienced child abuse or neglect are nearly five times more likely to die from poisonings or substance-related deaths. The research also shows a nearly three-fold increased risk of suicide among these individuals.
A recent study by University of California - Riverside researchers found that up to one-quarter of child sexual abuse survivors might be overlooked for treatment due to existing screening procedures. The study also discovered that whether survivors identify themselves as child abuse survivors influences their young adult outcomes, with...
Research shows that childhood maltreatment affects girls more than boys, leading to higher levels of low-grade inflammation. Girls who experienced abuse at a young age are at risk for significant health problems later in life.
A 20-year study by University of Queensland researchers found that child neglect was the most severe type of maltreatment associated with teen pregnancy, as well as poor educational and psychological outcomes. Neglected children were also more likely to experience substance abuse problems and psychotic episodes.
A study found that recent episodes of intimate partner violence and history of childhood abuse worsen trauma symptoms such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, and sleep disorders in new mothers. Postnatal medical screenings may help identify signs of abuse and provide an opportunity for intervention.
A study of 608,540 South Australian children found that child abuse and neglect led to an average of 7.7 hospital admissions by age 16.5, with those in out-of-home care facing the highest risk. The long-term health consequences are evident even among children without elevated cases.
Researchers found that mothers engage in various protective behaviors to shield their children from domestic abuse, such as controlling the home environment and 'keeping the peace.' A strengths-based approach is essential for practitioners to recognize and support these efforts, rather than perpetuating negative stereotypes of motherhood.
A surge in domestic child abuse was reported by a specialist UK children's hospital during the coronavirus pandemic, with a 1493% increase in head injuries in one month. The hospital saw 10 cases of suspected abusive head trauma among infants, highlighting the complex interplay between abuse, mental health, and socioeconomic factors.
A new review aims to better understand how to protect disabled children and young people from abuse, which is three to four times more likely for those with disabilities. Researchers will assess existing evidence to identify best practices in identification, involvement of families, and improving outcomes for this vulnerable group.
A new study by King's College London researchers found that personal accounts of childhood maltreatment show a stronger association with psychiatric problems compared to legal proof of maltreatment. Those who recalled the experience were nearly twice as likely to have emotional disorders in adulthood.
A recent study examines how social isolation and stress contribute to child abuse during the pandemic. The research also identifies strategies for reducing these risks and promoting children's well-being.
Computational simulations help clinicians visualize AHT impact and predict short- and long-term effects. The study reveals CSF protection is limited to the first shake, with repeated shakes causing brain damage.
A new study from Ohio State University examines the link between childhood physical abuse and heavy cigarette use among teenagers. Research shows that children who experience physical abuse are more likely to develop a heavy smoking habit, with early childhood abuse being a significant predictor.
A new study investigates predictors of child maltreatment and factors contributing to better or worse outcomes for victims and their children. The research explores connections between mothers who have experienced child protective services and early-life health and social outcomes of their children.
A Rutgers study found that children with a documented history of abuse or neglect were 23% more likely to suffer a fingertip injury before age 12. The researchers analyzed medical records from 79,108 children and identified a link between fingertip injuries and abuse or neglect.
A new study in rats reveals the extent of brain damage caused by short-term maternal abuse, which can lead to fear and memory problems. Researchers also found that the combination of stress and abuse can restrict growth of certain parts of the brain, leading to behavioral problems.
A study in four low-income countries found that over a third of women experienced mistreatment during childbirth, including physical and verbal abuse. Younger and less educated women were more likely to experience mistreatment, highlighting gaps in quality and respectful maternity care.
A study published in The Lancet found that more than a third of women in four low-income countries experienced mistreatment during childbirth. Younger and less educated women were disproportionately affected. The study highlights the need for effective communication, informed consent, and respectful care to improve health equity.
A new study found that childhood emotional abuse is associated with more frequent sleep hot flashes and increases in hot flashes over time. The researchers used physiologic measurements to show a strong link between childhood trauma and hot flash severity.
Research examining US alcohol and pregnancy policies from 1972-2015 found varying effects on birth outcomes by race. For White women, most policies had adverse effects, while for Black women, four policies had beneficial effects. The study suggests future research should explore the reasons behind these disparities.
A new study found that children are more likely to suffer injuries due to abuse when cared for by a male caregiver, especially if the male is the boyfriend of the mother or another caregiver. The odds of child physical abuse vs. accidental injury increased substantially in these situations.
A Rutgers University study found that Chinese-Americans who experienced child abuse or intimate partner violence are more likely to experience elder abuse. The researchers surveyed 3,157 Chinese-American adults over age 60 and found a significant association between early victimization and later abuse.
Research led by Virginia Commonwealth University links e-cigarette use among young adults with childhood abuse or neglect. The study explores the potential role of impulsivity in this relationship and highlights the need for prevention and intervention efforts targeting vulnerable populations.
A recent study reveals that radiology residents in the US are not adequately trained to identify and report child abuse. The study, presented at the ARRS 2019 Annual Meeting, found that residents correctly identified only 37.6% of non-accidental trauma cases over a five-year period.
A new study found that many children who contact crisis hotlines use text-based communication to report abuse and neglect. The study, conducted by Purdue University researchers, suggests that implementing text or chat-based communication methods could be essential for social and health services hoping to reach young people.
Research suggests that linguistic pattern analysis of testimony can lead to more impartial investigations and accurate diagnoses of PTSD in child sexual abuse cases. Children with PTSD are more likely to provide disjointed narrative testimony, but this may be credible.
A recent study from Vanderbilt University Medical Center found that children with autism spectrum disorder are at a higher risk of being reported to the Child Abuse Hotline. The study revealed that over 17% of children with ASD had been reported for maltreatment, compared to 7.4% of children without ASD.
Research reveals that children who experience physical, sexual, and emotional abuse are at least two to three times more likely to attempt suicide as adults. The study also found that people not in contact with mental health clinicians face the highest level of risk.
The USPSTF finds limited or inconsistent evidence on the benefits of primary care interventions to prevent child maltreatment. Children with signs or symptoms suggesting maltreatment should be assessed or reported according to applicable state laws.
Researchers urge recognition of parental alienation as a form of family violence, citing its negative consequences for children's psychological health and well-being. The phenomenon involves behaviors such as targeting the other parent, creating fear, and sabotaging their relationship with the child.
A new study finds significant variation in opioid prescription rates and child removal rates among states, with some states experiencing a positive association between the two.
A survey-based study of 21,889 adults found that severe childhood physical abuse and frequent intimate partner violence exposure increased the risk of arthritis. The study suggests potentially enduring immune and metabolic abnormalities caused by childhood abuse may play a role in the development of arthritis.