NCJ Number
145871
Journal
Journal of Elder Abuse and Neglect Volume: 2 Issue: 1-2 Dated: (1990) Pages: 73-86
Date Published
1990
Length
14 pages
Annotation
This study attempts to determine the characteristics that make financially dependent adult children more likely to abuse their aging parents.
Abstract
Early research into elder abuse by adult children attributed the abuse to stress on the abuser brought about by the elders increasing dependence on their children as caregivers. More recent research, however, has found that the dependency of the abuser on the elderly parent may actually be a more important factor contributing to abuse. This study looks at the characteristics of financially dependent adult children who have abused their aging parents. Qualitative analysis was conducted of the cases in which the dependent adult child was an alcoholic or mentally ill. Data came from 204 substantiated cases of abuse reported in Wisconsin over an 18-month period. The study found that adult children who were more likely to be financially dependent on their parent were under 40, living in the parent's home and chemically dependent. The results of the qualitative analysis showed that abused elders may be suffering from major depression and mental health problems. Implications for further research are discussed. 3 tables