Semester of Graduation

Spring

Degree

Master of Social Work (MSW)

Department

Social Work

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

Child maltreatment affects thousands of children and adolescents every year. This phenomenon is multidimensional, meaning there are different subtypes (i.e., physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and neglect) known to predict various mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. While previous research has investigated mental health outcomes in maltreated youth, results may vary based on the dimensions of abuse considered. This study aims to expand on previous literature to examine how a history of child maltreatment subtypes influences the manifestation of anxiety and depressive symptoms in youth at age 18. The current study uses secondary data analysis of the Longitudinal Study of Child Abuse and Neglect (LONGSCAN), a consortium of studies that examines the antecedents and consequences of child maltreatment. The relationship between child maltreatment and anxiety and depression is explained using attachment and cognitive theories. This study found that emotional abuse and neglect were significantly associated with depression; meanwhile, only emotional abuse was associated with anxiety. Associations between other maltreatment subtypes with anxiety and depression were non-significant. Implications of these findings for research and practice are discussed.

Date

3-21-2023

Committee Chair

Canfield, James P.

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_theses.5717

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