A recent study has linked recessionary unemployment to increases in child abuse. The study, conducted by Dr. Robert Sege the director of the child protective team at Boston Medical Center, has found that for every 1% increase in unemployment there was an increase of reported child abuse of 0.5 for every 1,000 children one year later. Dr. Sege explains that “Over the 18 year period [of the study], when employment went up or down, maltreatment went up or down with a one year delay. So the change in unemployment this year predicts child maltreatment next year.”
“There are long term consequences of childhood abuse and neglect,” says Sege. “Lifelong effects.” Because of these effects and the link between child abuse and unemployment, the study shows that during tough economic times it is especially important to continue supporting organizations and services that protect children and help families.
This relationship is extremely significant. Research has shown that the adverse effects of childhood abuse and neglect often are carried well into adulthood in the forms of mental illnesses and chronic conditions such as heart disease. Of equally important concern, it has been shown that during recessionary times, though the government increases funding for services such as Medicaid and unemployment benefits, spending for child protective services is often cut.
“There are long term consequences of childhood abuse and neglect,” says Sege. “Lifelong effects.” Because of these effects and the link between child abuse and unemployment, the study shows that during tough economic times it is especially important to continue supporting organizations and services that protect children and help families.
Read the full article: http://healthland.time.com/2010/10/04/side-effect-of-the-recession-an-increase-in-child-abuse/?artId=11127?contType=blog?chn=us
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