Child maltreatment in Chinese ethnic minority regions: Does gender Matter?

Abstract

Objective

The study aimed to discuss the gender differences in the prevalence and correlates of child maltreatment in Chinese ethnic minority regions.

Participants and Setting

The data were collected from October 2019 to January 2020 and consisted of 1763 children (Mean age: 12.34, 50.0% female) in Chinese ethnic minority regions including Miao, Tibetan, and Hui.

Methods

Descriptive analysis was conducted to compare the gender differences in the prevalence of child abuse in ethnic minority regions. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to analyze the correlates of child maltreatment and gender differences.

Results

First, there were significant gender differences in the prevalence of child maltreatment. Boys faced a higher risk of physical abuse, whereas girls had a higher risk of neglect. Genders of both the children and parents were positively associated with child maltreatment and each subtype, respectively.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that there is a gender difference in child maltreatment among Chinese ethnic minority regions. The study has major implications for practice and policy related to child welfare in China.