I2c

DOES EARLY CHILD MALTREATMENT MEDIATE THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SCHOOL FAILURE AND INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE IN HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

Presenters: Rebecca Leeb, Joseph Logan

Abstract Category: Research

Instruction Level: Beginner

Presentation: Not Provided

Description:

Examination of the relationship between child maltreatment, school failure and interpersonal violence in youth.

Abstract:

Research has found a relationship between child maltreatment and poor academic performance: Children who have experienced maltreatment are more likely than non-maltreated children to display lower academic aspirations and have poorer academic grades. A relationship has also been found between early child maltreatment and subsequent involvement in interpersonal violence. Children who experience maltreatment have a higher likelihood of reporting involvement in peer violence.

Additionally, a relationship has been found between poor academic performance and interpersonal violence: Children who do more poorly in school are also more likely to report involvement in peer violence. However, no research has examined the inter-relationship of these three factors.

The purpose of the present study is to explore a potential mediational relationship between child maltreatment experienced prior to age 10, poor academic performance, and interpersonal violence in adolescence.

Data were drawn from the “Youth Violence Survey: Linkages Among Different Forms of Violence” (‘Linkages’) study, a cross-sectional survey-based study of adolescents living in a high-risk community. The survey assessed shared and unique risk and protective factors for dating violence, peer violence, and suicidal behavior. Data from 2598 students were analyzed.

Information on the relationship between early child maltreatment, school failure, and interpersonal violence in adolescence can help target violence prevention and intervention programs.