Social Mechanisms of Child Maltreatment

PWP-CCPR-2010-018

Abstract

This article begins to describe and explicate the specific mechanisms by which substance use and the substance use environment contribute to specific types of child maltreatment. These mechanisms relating alcohol outlet densities and drug market activities to child maltreatment described here include effects on social disorganization, parent’s drinking and drug use behaviors, and parental supervision. By investigating potential mechanisms, new information could be obtained on the importance and role of alcohol, drugs, and their availability in the etiology of child maltreatment. This knowledge can be used to further tailor interventions to those conditions most likely to prevent and reduce maltreatment.