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Abstract: 

Neglect is the most common form of child maltreatment, accounting for more than half of active cases each year. Child neglect impacts children in both cognitive and social-emotional development. Economic and social poverty can compound these effects. Social capital in a community can prevent child maltreatment by supporting parents and helping them be more effective. The components of social capital include expectations within the community of obligation, reciprocity, and trustworthiness. In communities with high social capital, families watch out for each other. They watch each other’s children. And they are more likely to offer a helping hand. All of these factors help families meet the needs of their children.

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Affiliations:  1: Clemson University Institute on Family and Neighborhood Life.