N2b

PARTNER VIOLENCE, MATERNAL MENTAL HEALTH, SUBSTANCE USE AND SUBSEQUENT CHILD OUTCOMES AT AGE 3

Presenters: Cynthia Connelly, Andrea L. Hazen, John Landsverk

Abstract Category: Research

Instruction Level: Intermediate

Presentation: Not Provided

Description:      

Findings from Health Families San Diego Clinical Trial. The effect of maternal depression, intimate partner violence and substance use on child outcomes.

Abstract:

Numerous studies have documented the adverse effects of exposure to intimate partner violence and maternal mental health problems on the psychosocial functioning of children and adolescents.  However, few studies have examined these relationships from a longitudinal perspective and little research has been conducted with very young children. The purpose of this study was to examine the associations among intimate partner violence, maternal mental health, substance use and children’s psychological adjustment. Data are from a randomized trial of home visitation services for families of newborns deemed at risk for child maltreatment and adverse child health and developmental outcomes. Participants included 488 mothers and children. The sample was diverse with 46.1% Latino, 24.2% White, 19.5% African American, and 10.2% Asian/Pacific Islander, American Indian, or other. Information on intimate partner violence and maternal and child adjustment was obtained in interviews conducted at birth, 12-, 24-, and 36-month follow up. Relationships among violence, maternal mental health, and child adjustment will be examined with path analysis. The implications of the findings for intervention and research will be discussed.