Racial Bias in Child Protection? A Comparison of Competing Explanations Using National Data

摘要: OBJECTIVE: Cases of child abuse and neglect that involve black children are reported to substantiated by public welfare agencies at a rate approximately twice cases white children. A range studies have been performed assess the degree which this racial disproportionality is attributable bias in physicians, nurses, other professionals mandated report suspected victimization. The prevailing current explanation posits presence among reporters within system has led large overrepresentation competing mainly consequence increased exposure risk factors such as poverty. METHODS: We tested models using data drawn from national health sources. compared ratios on rates victimization official organizations key outcomes not subject same potential biases (eg, general infant mortality). RESULTS: found differences consistent with known for outcomes. also evidence supporting cultural protective Hispanic children, termed “Hispanic paradox.” CONCLUSIONS: Although our findings do preclude possibility bias, these suggest reporting large-scale drivers disproportionality. Our reduction black/white can best be achieved approach reducing underlying affect families.