Childhood cruelty to animals in <scp>C</scp>hina: the relationship with psychological adjustment and family functioning

Animal abuse by children is common, with 3-44% of children being reported to abuse animals at some point during their childhood. Much of this behaviour may be regarded as an extension of exploratory behaviour in a younger child; however, the apparent link between child and animal abuse is an area of increasing interest; with children who abuse animals being 2-3 times more likely to be directly abused themselves. How concerned should a health professional be that a child who abuses animals could themselves be the victim of abuse? We reviewed the literature on the subject, finding that abuse to an animal that is perpetrated by an older child (>10 years) is more likely to be associated with child abuse. Animal abuse is less common in girls compared with boys and there is some suggestion that child abuse may be more likely in these cases. Some papers have reported a higher prevalence of animal abuse in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, developmental delay and conduct disorder, but the relationship with child abuse in these cases is unknown. Information on both child and animal abuse needs to be shared between the veterinary, medical and social care teams in order to protect both children and animals who are vulnerable.

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Childhood cruelty to animals in China: the relationship with psychological adjustment and family functioning

Abstract: This study provided the first insight into childhood animal cruelty in China, and suggests that further research may enhance our understanding of these phenomena.

Cited by 4 publications

References 57 publications

The connection between animal abuse and interpersonal violence: A review from the veterinary perspective

The connection between animal abuse and interpersonal violence: A review from the veterinary perspective

Understanding and Conceptualizing Childhood Animal Harm: A Meta-Narrative Systematic Review

Children who abuse animals: when should you be concerned about child abuse? A review of the literature

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