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Domestic abuse may affect children in womb

Research by Michigan State University scientists reveals a strong link between mothers' prenatal domestic abuse and postnatal trauma symptoms in their children. The study found that prenatal abuse can cause changes in the mother's stress response systems, leading to increased cortisol levels in the fetus.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalChild Abuse & Neglect·DateDec 16, 2014

Childhood trauma could lead to adult obesity

A meta-analysis of 112,000 participants found that childhood trauma significantly increases the risk of obesity in adulthood. The study revealed a 34% higher risk among adults who experienced abuse as children, with physical and emotional abuse leading to increased risks of 28% and 36% respectively.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalObesity Reviews·DateSep 2, 2014

For a holistic approach to POW trauma

A new study examines the complex interplay between Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and depressive symptoms in ex-POWs, finding that treatment must address both conditions simultaneously. Prof. Solomon's research suggests that a 'tunnel vision' approach to treating POWs is ineffective and may even exacerbate symptoms.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Psychiatric Research·DateJul 7, 2014

Drawing conclusions

Dr. Carmit Katz's study found that drawing during questioning significantly improves the accuracy and detail of child abuse testimonies. Children empowered to draw reported regaining control and feeling hopeful, with richer descriptions provided compared to those not offered this opportunity.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalChild Abuse & Neglect·DateApr 3, 2014

Between accident and real harm in child injuries

A research team developed a force sensing skin that can identify potential bruising locations on a child surrogate to differentiate between accidental trauma and child abuse. The system provides a roadmap documenting a child's exposure to impact, critical for forensic analysis.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalTECHNOLOGY·DateApr 3, 2014

Child abuse rises with income inequality, study shows

A nationwide study by Cornell researchers found that child abuse and neglect are associated with income inequality, affecting 3.4 million children under 18 years old each year. The study also highlighted the long-term effects of childhood maltreatment, including increased rates of unemployment and substance use.

SourceCornell University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 11, 2014

Making sad sense of child abuse

A Tel Aviv University study analyzed allegations of child abuse, finding that children tend to accommodate physical abuse but fight or flee sexual abuse unless severe. The research may aid in prosecution and treatment, emphasizing the importance of understanding children's responses to abuse.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalChild Abuse & Neglect·DateDec 23, 2013

Abuse, lack of parental warmth in childhood linked to multiple health risks in adulthood

A new UCLA-led study examines the effects of childhood abuse and lack of parental affection across the body's entire regulatory system. The research finds a strong biological link between negative early life experiences and physical health, with parental warmth offering protection against these effects.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 26, 2013

Abused children found to smoke more as teens and adults

A new study from the University of Washington finds that abused children are more likely to smoke excessively in adolescence and adulthood, with girls who were sexually abused being particularly at risk. The study suggests that early intervention and prevention of child abuse can lead to long-term public health benefits.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateAug 5, 2013

Childhood abuse linked with food addiction in adult women

A new study finds that women who experienced childhood abuse are more likely to have a food addiction, with eight percent meeting the criteria for food addiction. Women who experienced both physical and sexual abuse in childhood had an even higher likelihood of developing food addiction.

SourceWiley·JournalObesity·DateMay 29, 2013

A better way to prevent child abuse

A UK study found that the £10 million Family Nurse Partnership program can only tackle around 10% of families involved in child maltreatment. Researchers suggest using different risk factors to identify vulnerable children could reach three times more abusive families.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalJournal of Public Health·DateMay 14, 2013

Why do babies calm down when they are carried?

A study by RIKEN Brain Science Institute researchers found that human babies and mouse pups relax when carried due to a combination of nervous, motor, and cardiac responses. This infant calming response is beneficial for both mother and child, reducing maternal burden and promoting interaction.

SourceRIKEN·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 18, 2013

Abuse during childhood linked to adult-onset asthma in African-American women

A new study by Boston University School of Medicine found that African-American women who suffered abuse before age 11 had a greater likelihood of developing adult-onset asthma. The study followed 28,456 women and found an increased incidence of asthma among those who experienced physical abuse during childhood.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateDec 7, 2012

'... But names could really hurt me'

Child psychological abuse is linked to disorders of attachment, developmental and educational problems, socialization problems and disruptive behaviour. The effects of psychological maltreatment during the first three years of life can be particularly profound.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJul 30, 2012

Sexual minority women are often victims of abuse

A new study reveals that lesbian and bisexual women, particularly those who identify as more butch or femme, are at higher risk of childhood abuse and adult sexual assault. The research highlights the importance of considering gender identity and expression in targeted assessments and interventions for this vulnerable population.

SourceSpringer·JournalSex Roles·DateJun 14, 2012

Physical abuse may raise risk of suicidal thoughts

A recent study published in Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior found that nearly one-third of adults who were physically abused in childhood seriously considered taking their own life. The study suggests that children exposed to physical abuse may be at greater risk for suicidal behaviours in adulthood.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalSuicide and Life-Threatening Behavior·DateApr 24, 2012

Children hospitalized at alarming rate due to abuse

According to a Yale University study published in Pediatrics, over 4,500 US children were hospitalized due to child abuse in 2006, resulting in 300 deaths. Children under one year old were at highest risk of hospitalization, and those on Medicaid had rates six times higher than non-Medicaid patients.

SourceYale University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 6, 2012

Study finds primary health care providers fail to report substantial cases of child abuse

A recent study found that primary care providers (PCPs) fail to report a significant number of suspected child abuse cases. The researchers validated the PCPs' decisions using expert review and provider self-assessment, revealing a high sensitivity but low reporting rate. The study highlights the need for improved education on recogniz...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAcademic Pediatrics·DateNov 9, 2011