Verband tussen signalering van kindermishandeling en psychische problemen bij peuters, rekening houdend met opvoedingsstress van ouders

Abstract

Introduction. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships between the screening of child abuse, psychological problems of preschool children and parenting stress. Furthermore, psychological problems of preschool children was separated into emotional problems, behavioral problems, hyperactivity and social problems with peers. It is known that there is an important relation between child abuse and psychological problems of preschool children. However, there has not been a clear understanding of the contribution of parenting stress in the relationship between the screening of child abuse and psychological problems. Methods. Preschool children (n = 251, 49,8% female, Mage = 3.37 years) were recruited from preschools in Utrecht. Several questionnaires (SDQ, Observation Tool for Child Abuse, Parents’ Strengths and Difficulties) were completed by parents and pedagogical employees. Results. A multiple regression analysis revealed that there was no significant relation between the screening of child abuse and parenting stress. However, there were significant relations between the screening of child abuse and psychological problems. Furthermore a relation between parenting stress and psychological problems was found. Conclusion. Although not expected, there does not seem to be a relation between the screening of child abuse and parenting stress. A limitation of this study includes a presumably limited understanding of the questionnaires for parents who are not native Dutch speakers. The findings of this study demonstrate that recognizing early signs of child abuse is important because of the several adverse consequences in the lifespan of children.