Caregiver Physical Health and Protective Factors Against Child Abuse and Neglect

Abstract

Child abuse and neglect are influential negative experiences with long-lasting effects. A trend in child maltreatment prevention focuses on investigation of protective factors rather than risk factors. The present study examined relationships among caregiver physical health, protective factors, stress, and depression at two time points in a national sample of caregivers receiving parenting-related services. Results included predictive effects from aspects of reduced health to increases in stress and depression and evidence that depression mediated the relationships between aspects of health (Role Limitations and General Health) and family functioning. Consistent predictive relationships from depression (negative effect) and stress (positive effect) to family functioning were also found. Implications for considering caregiver physical health in the context of child maltreatment prevention are discussed.