On the relationship between economic inequality and child maltreatment: Takeaways from the special issue and future directions
This editorial highlights how rising inequality impacts child welfare, revealing that higher intergenerational mobility correlates with lower maltreatment rates.
College of Health researcher(s)
Abstract
This editorial examines the intricate relationship between rising economic inequality and child maltreatment, a critical yet underexplored area in social science research. Despite extensive studies on poverty's impact on child welfare, the specific effects of economic inequality remain largely unaddressed. The editorial synthesizes findings from various studies, indicating that increased county-level income inequality correlates with higher rates of child maltreatment. Additionally, it highlights the role of intergenerational mobility in mitigating risks associated with maltreatment. The implications for social policy and the necessity for further research into the dynamics of economic inequality and child welfare are discussed, emphasizing the need for a multifaceted approach to address these pressing social issues.