Publication year: 2011
Source: Children and Youth Services Review, In Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available online 8 March 2011
Lina, Millett , Paul, Lanier , Brett, Drake
The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of the recent economic recession on child maltreatment rates. Specifically, we examine whether unemployment rates, labor force participation, and Food Stamp usage are associated with aggregate rates of child abuse and neglect (CAN) rates using state-level data. Theory and prior empirical evidence supports the relationship between family and neighborhood poverty and incidence of child maltreatment; however, the relationship between general economic environment and CAN remains unclear.The study uses a multiple case study design at the state level, analyzing administrative child maltreatment and economic data for seven U.S. states. Aggregate numbers…
Research Highlights: ►We examine economic recession effects on child maltreatment rates for seven states. ►We expect that unemployment, labor force, and Food stamps will predict maltreatment. ►Only one state’s data supports our predictions. ►Overall results suggest weak relationship between maltreatment and recession.