Many studies show that financial uncertainty increases child abuse

What is it about?

Many families face financial uncertainty and cannot pay their bills. They are hungry, poor, and cannot afford shelter. Some researchers find that financial uncertainty increases child abuse. Other researchers do not. We need to know if financial insecurity increases child abuse. Without this information, we cannot stop child abuse. In our study, we reviewed findings from all studies on financial uncertainty and child abuse. Losing income, being hungry, and needing shelter increase child abuse.

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Why is it important?

This paper is the first systematic review of financial uncertainty and child abuse. Systematic reviews clarify what is known about a topic. This is important because some studies link financial uncertainty and child abuse. Others do not. In our review, we found that 1) financial uncertainty increases child abuse and 2) parental employment protects children from abuse. People can use this summary to advocate for children and families.