Self-identified mistreatment as children by expectant new mothers: An opportunity for prevention

Abstract

One major factor in the perpetuation of child mistreatment is a family history of abuse. Prevention efforts typically identify parents after deleterious effects of abuse have already begun. Eighty-nine expectant first-time mothers responded to a survey designed to determine (1) the rate at which they would identify themselves as having been abused as children, and (2) for those who would, the rate at which they would accept offers of services designed to improve their capacity for constructive parenting. Almost 15% of respondents (13 of 89) acknowledged being abused. Nine of those 13 (69%), as well as 20 of the 76(26%) who denied abuse, expressed interest in services ‘especially designed for expectant parents who were mistreated as children’. These results suggest an avenue to target prevention services on a population at risk for child abuse, but not yet self-stigmatized by acting out that risk. Further research is needed to determine whether these findings can be replicated in a more clearly defined population in a clinic setting.