Entering out-of-home care during childhood: cumulative incidence study in Canada and Australia
Date
2016
Authors
O'Donnell, M.
Maclean, M.J.
Sims, S.
Brownell, M.
Ekuma, O.
Gilbert, R.E.
Editors
Advisors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Type:
Journal article
Citation
Child Abuse and Neglect, 2016; 59:78-87
Statement of Responsibility
Conference Name
Abstract
Cumulative incidence provides a more accurate indicator than annual incidence rates of the number of children who experience out-of-home care during childhood. The study utilises a cohort of all children born in Western Australia (WA) 1994-2005 and Manitoba 1998-2008 using de -identified linked data. Life tables were used to calculate the age-specific cumulative incidence over time and for at-risk groups. Cox regression was used to compare risk factors for entry to care. Manitoba had a larger proportion of children entering care compared to WA (9.4% vs 1.5% by age 12). Over time children entered care at a younger age in both WA (HR= 1.5, CI:1.4-1.5) and Manitoba (HR= 1.5, CI:1.5-1.6). Similar factors were associated with earlier age care entries in both countries including: socioeconomic disadvantage, young maternal age, maternal hospital admissions for mental health issues, substance misuse and assault. Supplementary analysis for WA showed a time trend with young children (<3 years of age) who entered care spending an increasing proportion of their early years in care. Whilst Manitoba had a larger proportion of children entering care, over time in Western Australia children have been entering care at a younger age and spending more time in care. These latter factors contribute to an increased burden on the out-of-home care system. Manitoba had over five times greater cumulative incidence than WA, however risk factors for entry to out-of-home care were consistent in both countries. Knowledge of the risk factors for entry to out-of-home care can inform targeted support and prevention programs.
School/Discipline
Dissertation Note
Provenance
Description
Link to a related website: http://api.research-repository.uwa.edu.au/files/20410688/O_Donnell_et_al_2016_Entering_out_of_home_care_during_childhood_.pdf, Open Access via Unpaywall
Access Status
Rights
Copyright 2016 Elsevier