ScholarWorks@숙명여자대학교

초록

The current study aimed to reveal various predictors of child neglect by age groups among child-, care-giver-, family- and community-level variables based on an ecological perspective. Utilizing data from 3,091 mothers who participated in the 2013 National Survey on Children’s Life, the study examined the prevalence of specific caregivers’ neglecting behaviors and the predictors of neglect by four different age groups-infants/toddlers(0~2 years), pre-schoolers(3~5 years), primary schoolers(6~11 years) and adolescents(12~17 years). Logistic regression analysis showed that there are both common and different predictors of child neglect by age groups. Across the age groups, mothers’ depression was a significant predictor and mothers’ parenting stress was important except for the infant group. However, for infants/toddlers and pre-schoolers, mothers’ prenatal health behavior was important. Mother’s alcohol and cigarette use was associated with infant/toddler neglect and prenatal health care was associated with pre-schooler neglect. On the other hand, for primary schoolers and adolescents, mothers’ employment was associated with neglect, which implies that after-school child care services need to be provided to those in need. Also, the quality of family relationship was a significant predictor for school-aged children and adolescents. Families with children who are able to express their thoughts and opinions should involve the children in family decision making and communicate with them constantly.

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