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A Longitudinal Study of Modifying Influences in the Relationship Between Domestic Violence and Child Maltreatment

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Abstract

The increased risk of child maltreatment in the presence of domestic violence is well documented, but much remains unknown about factors that modify this relationship. This study investigates the roles of risk and protective factors in the relationship between domestic violence and being reported to the Department of Social Services for child maltreatment. Consistent with the literature, we find a significant overlap between domestic violence and maltreatment. Young maternal age, low education, low income, and lack of involvement in a religious community add to the risk for maltreatment associated with domestic violence. Separation between the maternal caregiver and her partner significantly reduces the risk for maltreatment when domestic violence is reported. A significant reduction in the risk for maltreatment is also found with higher levels of support from the maternal caregiver reported by the child in the context of domestic violence.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Social Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina

    Christine E. Cox

  2. Department of Maternal and Child Health, University of North Carolina School of Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina

    Jonathan B. Kotch

  3. Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina

    Mark D. Everson

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  1. Christine E. Cox
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  2. Jonathan B. Kotch
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  3. Mark D. Everson
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Cox, C.E., Kotch, J.B. & Everson, M.D. A Longitudinal Study of Modifying Influences in the Relationship Between Domestic Violence and Child Maltreatment. Journal of Family Violence 18, 5–17 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1021497213505

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