Abstract
Introduction:Child maltreatment (CM) is a significant public health problem that increases following natural disasters. Ecological approaches have been used to study these complex phenomena, and the current research fits within this perspective by conducting qualitative interviews with disaster response and family-serving community agencies. The purpose of the study was to identify whether or not community agencies identified CM as an issue that is relevant for disaster planning and response and their perspectives on risk and protective factors for CM risk following disaster.Methods:Agencies (n=16) from 2 geographical areas participated - one that recently experienced a natural disaster (Louisiana (LA), n=7) and one that had not (Georgia (GA), n=9). Agency representatives completed semi-structured telephone interviews (n=16) and follow up in person focus groups (n=14). Theory-driven, thematic analyses were completed.Results:Results suggested that community agencies agree that post-disaster environments increase the risk for CM and that CM prevention has a role in disaster response planning. Risk and protective factors were identified according to Bronfenbrenner’ s ecological framework.Conclusion:Study results support the need to include CM prevention efforts within disaster planning and provide guidance for future research to inform such efforts.
Highlights
Child maltreatment (CM) is a significant public health problem that increases following natural disasters
Results suggested that community agencies agree that post-disaster environments increase the risk for CM and that CM prevention has a role in disaster response planning
Comprehensive disaster response planning for children addresses the basic needs of nutrition, shelter, sanitation, and clothing, as well as mental health consequences related to disaster exposure. 2-4 Absent, is disaster planning and prevention related to disaster-related secondary intentional injury risk, such as child maltreatment (CM)
Summary
Child maltreatment (CM) is a significant public health problem that increases following natural disasters. Children who experience maltreatment or abuse are at great risk for deleterious behavioral, academic, psychological and health problems.[7,8,9,10] Given the increase in CM following disaster, and the pervasive impact of CM, research on disaster response and CM prevention efforts is warranted. This area of research is especially relevant for medical professionals working in emergency medicine, as children are often seen in medical settings post-disaster and, these professionals could serve as important contributors to disaster planning and coordinated response efforts targeting CM prevention.[11]
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