Two recent studies reinforce the conclusion that anti-poverty policies help prevent child abuse and neglect. One study using data from over 7500 students found that “having a parent or other adult in the home with a job loss was associated with higher odds of emotional or physical abuse.” Job loss and economic insecurity increase stress for parents and that heightened stress can play out in verbal or physical abuse of children. This suggests that providing economic support to families challenged by job loss might reduce child abuse and neglect (Ma, “Is Household Unemployment Associated With Increased Verbal and Physical Child Abuse During the COVID Pandemic?” Child Maltreatment 2023 Feb;28(1):7-12. doi: 10.1177/10775595221088217)
Another study looked at the impact of increased Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) eligibility during COVID on state rates of Child Protective Services (CPS) investigations. Some states eliminated the asset test for SNAP eligibility; others increased the income limit for eligibility; and some states did both. States adopting one or both measures saw decreases in CPS investigations. This research suggests that more generous state policies that reduce food insufficiency can affect the likelihood of child abuse and neglect (Austin, et al. “Association of State Expansion of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Eligibility With Rates of Child Protective Services-Investigated Reports.” JAMA Pediatrics 2023 Mar 1;177(3):294-302. doi: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2022.5348).
Anti-poverty policies are a crucial part of efforts to prevent child abuse and neglect.
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