Child Abuse in Times of Crises: Lessons Learned

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has created conditions which heighten risk for child abuse. As key players in times of crisis, pediatric emergency medicine providers must be equipped with the tools to recognize, respond to, and mitigate risk of child abuse. An exploration of the scientific literature, stakeholder organization reports and lay press was undertaken to understand the impact of large-scale U.S. crises, including infectious disease, financial downturn, natural disaster, and violence, on child abuse risk and inform prevention strategies. Review of the literature suggests a relationship between crises and child abuse risk, though gaps in the research remain. We outline the role of pediatric emergency medicine providers in partnering with communities in organizing and advocating for systems that better protect children and strengthen families.