NCJ Number
223836
Journal
Child Maltreatment Volume: 13 Issue: 3 Dated: August 2008 Pages: 269-279
Date Published
August 2008
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This study examined the characteristics of child abuse among immigrant Chinese families in Los Angeles.
Abstract
The study found that regardless of the age and gender of the child or the length of U.S. residence, physical abuse was the most alleged type of child abuse among immigrant Chinese families. The finding is consistent with recent findings presented by Chang et al., 2006, who studied child abuse characteristics among Korean-speaking families in Los Angeles. Additional findings of physical abuse were consistent with the findings presented by Ima and Hohm (1991), who found that the rates of this type of abuse were greater among Asian-Americans in San Diego County. However, the pattern of Chinese child maltreatment in Los Angeles County differed from that of non-Asian child maltreatment in the same region. Immigrant Chinese families were more likely to be reported for physical abuse (36.3 percent) and less likely to be reported for neglect (22.3 percent) in comparison with the general Los Angeles County population. Data from the National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System reports that emotional abuse is one of the least frequently reported abuse categories nationwide (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2004). The study recommends that immigrant Chinese families and community leaders should be educated that the traditional child rearing practices and corporate punishment and shaming can be serious risk factors for child maltreatment in this country. Data were from 221 active Chinese case files from the Asian Pacific Unit of the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services from July through September 2001. The study discusses other recommendations and suggests possible areas for research. Tables, references