Are we back to normal? Evaluating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on referrals to a child protection service in a tertiary care centre in Vienna, Austria - Report - MDSpire
Clinical Report: Assessing the Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Child Protection Service Referrals
Overview
This study analyzed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on child maltreatment referrals at a tertiary care facility in Vienna, Austria. Findings indicate a significant decrease in suspected physical abuse referrals during the pandemic, while suspected sexual abuse cases increased post-pandemic, alongside a heightened need for psychological support.
Background
The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced various risk factors for child maltreatment, including increased parental stress and reduced access to support services. Understanding the effects of these disruptions on child protection systems is crucial for developing effective responses and prevention strategies.
Data Highlights
Referral Type
Change During Pandemic
Post-Pandemic Change
Suspected Physical Abuse
-55.3% (p=0.029)
Returned to pre-pandemic levels
Suspected Sexual Abuse
Stable
Increased (p=0.013)
Median Age of Victims
Progressively increased (p=0.025)
N/A
Need for Psychological Support
63.5% during pandemic (vs 43.8% pre-pandemic, p=0.019)
59.8% post-pandemic (p=0.018)
Key Findings
Suspected physical abuse referrals decreased by 55.3% during the pandemic.
Suspected sexual abuse cases remained stable during the pandemic but increased post-pandemic.
The median age of victims in suspected sexual abuse cases increased over time.
The need for psychological support rose during the pandemic and remained elevated post-pandemic.
Clinical Implications
Healthcare professionals should be aware of evolving patterns in child maltreatment referrals.
Conclusion
The study indicates that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a lasting impact on child protection referrals.
by Chryssa Grylli, Sophie Klomfar, Johanna Brandlechner, Laura Schaller, Katharina Weimann, Anastasia Pantazidou, Eva Mora-Theuer, Christoph Krall, Catherine Quantin, Susanne Greber-Platzer
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