Assessing the Relational Nature of Child Physical Abuse and Neglect Among 12-Year-Old Girls
Date
2019
Authors
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Journal of Social, Behavioral, and Health Sciences
Abstract
Child maltreatment is a historical and current problem in the United States. Children are
exposed to physical abuse, neglect, and sexual abuse in alarming numbers. In 2014, state
agencies found an estimated 702,000 victims of child maltreatment. With two thirds of this
group representing child neglect victims, research studies and effective interventions are
needed for this group in particular. This study examined the relational nature of child
neglect versus child physical abuse. The sample population consisted of 68 girls aged 12
years old at the Midwest site of the Longitudinal Studies of Child Abuse and Neglect
research project. The secondary analysis was completed with descriptive, correlational, and
multiple regression analyses. The results of the analysis revealed the mother–child
relationship was significantly related to the presence of neglect and was significantly related
to the presence of physical abuse. Peer relationships were not found to be significantly
related to the presence of neglect or physical abuse. In the multiple-regression analysis, child
neglect versus child physical abuse was more predictive of a negative mother–child
relationship. Of note, the outcomes of the study lead to a better understanding of the need for
relational interventions in treating victims of child abuse and neglect, as well as the
relational nature of abuse and neglect demand interventions that focus on the victim and the
caregiver/perpetrator. Such interventions can only result in socially and emotionally
connected individuals, improving the functioning of the adolescent and the future adult.
Description
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Article
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Keywords
neglect, child physical abuse, relational theory, child maltreatment
Citation
Dale, C. A. (2019). Assessing the Relational Nature of Child Physical Abuse and Neglect Among 12-Year-Old Girls. Journal of Social, Behavioral, and Health Sciences, 13(1), 6.