Environments of physically neglected children

A reanalysis of data from the Gaudin, Polansky, Kilpatrick, and Shilton 1996 study of 185 low-income families combined information from neglectful families with information from the comparison group. Physical neglect was related to maternal depression, more adult problems, stressful life events, negative family affect, and low social support. Multivariate analyses indicated that a combination of higher maternal education, positive family affect, more supportive services, and fewer stressful life events predicted the provision of adequate physical care among low-income families.