Date of Conferral

2023

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Nursing

Advisor

Mary Verklan

Abstract

The issue of child abuse is a growing concern in society. However, the limited amount of research available on parent–child relationships poses a challenge in terms of developing effective prevention strategies. The aim of the study was to analyze the connection between a parent who is abusive and their child who is being abused. The main objective of the study was to identify if the gender of the parent had a relationship with abusing the child of the same or different gender. Bowen’s family systems theory was used to support the study because of the assumption that family relationships are the fundamental cause of child abuse. Family systems theory, which involves three subsystems and eight concepts, is crucial in understanding child abuse. The study questions aimed to identify any correlations or trends in physical and psychological abuse, based on the gender of the child and the parent. Secondary data from the National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System were used to answer the research questions. A sample size of 84 participants was calculated using α = .05, medium effect size, and a power of 0.80. The inclusion criteria focused on people who had received services from child protective services agencies, including parents and children, abuse, maltreatment, and child relationships. Correlation, multiple regression, and statistical analysis were used for analytical procedures. The results show that if the parent is the father, there is a statistically significant predictor of likelihood of psychological or emotional maltreatment of male child (p < .001) For future research, it is imperative to thoroughly investigate male abusers, the timeline of abuse within the relationship, and the underlying cause of such behavior. Early detection of child abuse can lead to changes in society and positive behavior promotion, altering cultural standards, and providing interventions for positive relationships.

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