Neglect, Abuse Rates Higher for Children with Development Disabilities

Children with developmental disabilities may be more prone to abuse and neglect by parents and caretakers than those who develop at a typical rate. A recent study conducted by researchers at Saint Louis University (SLU) found that there is oftentimes a lack of empathy placed around inappropriate expectations for children dealing with these and other health issues.

"We already know that children with delayed or developmental problems are at 1.7 times greater risk for abuse than children without disabilities," said lead study author Debra Zand, Ph.D., associate professor of pediatrics at SLU and the lead study author, in a news release. "In this study, we wanted to investigate areas of a parent's behavior or reaction that might increase this risk."

For the study, researchers recruited a group of parents from diverse races, educational and economic backgrounds, all who had a child or children with disabilities.

Study results revealed that many of the parents expected more and empathized less with their child(ren) than parents of children who did not have disabilities. Other behavioral measurement categories also included attitudes about punishment, perceived parent-child roles and oppressing children's power and independence.

"We found that parents have higher expectations from their children, which may result asking them to achieve at a much higher standard than they are capable," Zand added. "We also saw that parents don't empathize toward their child's needs as much as parents of typically developing children, which suggests that these parents may not understand the needs or feelings of their children."

Researchers said many of the parents felt added stress and frustration when the children were unable to perform according to their expectations. As a result, this increased the risk of abusive behaviors against the child, according to Zand.

The findings reiterate appropriate bonding experiences between family and caretakers with children who have developmental disorders. Zand concludes that while pushing children out of their comfort zone is encouraged, a recognizable limit should also be acknowledged.

More information regarding the findings can be seen via the journal Clinical Pediatrics.