Child Maltreatment Profiles among Children and Adolescents in the Spanish Child Welfare System

• DOI: 10.1007/s12187-024-10138-1
• Publication Date: 2024-06-26T11:28:54Z
• Authors: Irene Fernández; Elisabeth Malonda...; José J. Navarro-P...; Anna Llorca
• Keywords: Welfare system; Child neglect

Abstract Maltreatment is a complex and multidimensional construct. Several types of maltreatment exist, but not all them necessarily co-occur. In the last decades, researchers have tried to untangle heterogeneity maltreatment. However, few studies been carried out outside U. S. none previous had considered stages this study, we aimed at exploring latent profiles in sample 635 children adolescents enrolled different intervention plans within Child Protective Services (CPS) Valencian Community, Spain. Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) was performed. Profiles were based on five (physical abuse, emotional sexual neglect physical neglect), as measured by Chilhood Trauma Questionnaire-Short Form. Moreover, associations between emerging sociodemographic, health- school-related variables also examined. Three found: “Relative low maltreatment” (58.58%), “Neglected” (35.92%), “Severely abused neglected” (5.5%). Then, contrasted with reasons why court dictated status child/adolescent validate profiles. Results regarding cumulative nature its severity suggest tailoring public policies level risk This study further proposes moving focus action from individuals themselves elements that characterize profiles, aim protecting them. Future research ought expand knowledge other European countries so promote generalization results.