Publication year: 2011
Source: Children and Youth Services Review, In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 1 September 2011
Emily, Putnam-Hornstein , Barbara, Needell
This study utilizes population-level birth data to describe those children who may be at greatest risk of maltreatment during the first five years of life. Based on a unique dataset constructed by linking California’s administrative child welfare data to statewide vital birth records, a cohort study design was employed to track reports of maltreatment involving children born in 2002. Twelve variables captured in the birth record were selected for analysis. Generalized Linear Models were used to estimate adjusted risk ratios (RR) for each independent variable. Predicted probabilities of CPS contact were computed based on the count of risk factors present…
► This article presents findings from a prospective birth cohort analysis. ► We estimate a child’s risk of being reported for maltreatment by age 5. ► Findings demonstrate that children at-risk of maltreatment can be targeted using birth data. ► We discuss using birth record data to construct an epidemiologic risk assessment tool.