Using administrative data in child protection research - Mental health outcomes for children involved in the child protection system: Utilising linked administrative data

Objectives: To determine the mental health issues and outcomes of children involved in the child protection system taking into account prior disadvantage, family adversity and level of child protection involvement. It is... [ view full abstract ]

Objectives: To determine the mental health issues and outcomes of children involved in the child protection system taking into account prior disadvantage, family adversity and level of child protection involvement. It is accepted that maltreatment can result in poor mental health outcomes however there is limited longitudinal evidence that take into account both pre-existing factors that may increase risk (such as mother’s mental health) and how child protection involvement including out-of-home care modifies this risk.
Methods: This study utilises linked administrative data from the Department for Child Protection and Family support (1990-2013) and data from the Mental Health Register and Hospital Morbidity System (1990-2013). The prevalence of mental health issues in children involved in child protection is reported and the risk of developing mental health issues over time is determined using cox regression.
Results: Of the children who have had an allegation of child maltreatment almost 16% had a diagnosed mental health issue. The prevalence was slightly higher for those children who had a substantiated allegation or entered a period of out of home care (18%). Risk of mental health outcomes will be presented and types of mental health diagnoses described.
Conclusions: Children who have been maltreated and involved in the child protection system are at risk of mental health issues. In addition to physical health checks it is essential that planning and the provision of support is provided for these children regarding their mental health and wellbeing. Administrative data provides an opportunity for long term follow-up of children who have been involved in child protection and their long term mental health outcomes.