Article

Economic Stress Can Lead to Increase in Child Abuse

The Family Tree's 24 hour StressLine is a Resource to Parents.   

October 28, 2008, Baltimore, MD - Studies show that reports of child abuse and neglect increase during economic hardship.  This is especially true for parent's who are predisposed to risk factors such as poverty, mental health, isolation, or substance abuse. Higher energy and food costs, job uncertainty, homelessness, and rising debt have many families experiencing increased levels of stress and anxiety.  According to the American Psychological Association, almost half of U.S. households are worried about their family's basic needs including food, health care, housing and transportation.  Economic stress is one of the major sources of family stress and can often lead to changes in family dynamics, such as irritability, depression, alcohol/drug abuse, and family violence¹. "This environment can leave some parents irritable, angry and dependent upon harsh discipline.  Children see the tension and think they are to blame.  The Family Tree is here to help parents and their children navigate these challenging times," said The Family Tree's Executive Director Patricia Cronin, LCSW-C,  "our Family Stressline is available 24-hours a day, 7-days a week.  Help is just a call away."   

Here are a few tips for families on how to handle stress related to the current economic climate and worries about your family's financial future:

• Talk to your children and answer their questions honestly.  Have age appropriate discussions with your children about how the current economic downturn affects your family and ways you are dealing with any problems.
• Limit your news intake.  Stay informed, but do not let children get caught up in the round the clock coverage of the negative state of the economy.
• Take care of yourself.  Exercise, watch what you eat, get plenty of rest, and take time for yourself.
• Be realistic. Look over your current financial situation and develop a plan to manage expenses.  Don't obsess over past mistakes or possible future problems.
• Have a support network.  Talk to family, friends, spiritual leaders, ask for assistance.
• Take a break. Engage in a family activity; visit the park, walk around the neighborhood or simply enjoy a meal together and avoid discussing the economy.
• Seek support when needed.  If the level of stress or anxiety is overwhelming call The Family Tree's Stressline - 800-243-7337.

¹Viktor Gecas, Purdue University professor of sociology.