Second Generation Mothers in Child Welfare: Factors That Mediate Their Children's Socioemotional Problems

Background/ Purpose. Although it is well-documented that families are frequently involved in the child welfare system across generations, existing research largely focuses on the intergenerational transmission of maltreatment, but offers little understanding about how parents are affected by being ‘second generation’. Second generation families have higher rates of co-occurring problems, such as mental health issues, poorer social networks, and greater poverty (Marshall, Huang, & Ryan, 2011; Milan et al., 2004). These mothers may have less support from their families as they parent, and their own early challenges may result in insecure attachments with their own children. They may also have either more negative or more positive feelings about child welfare involvement as a parent, compared to those without a childhood history, depending on their own experiences. These factors may all have an impact on their children’s socioemotional functioning.

The current study reports data from children birth through age 5 receiving child welfare services across Pennsylvania. All children age 5 and younger who enter the child welfare system are being screened for socioemotional problems. A stratified random sample of the biological mothers of these children (n=337) was interviewed in-depth about their individual and family risk and protective factors, as well as their experiences with the child welfare system as a child and as a parent.

Methods. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were used to compare differences between first and second generation mothers and their children.  Structural equation modelling was used to understand how family functioning, attachment, family supports, and current engagement in child welfare mediated the relationship between second generation mothers and child socioemotional problems.

Results. Although there were more similarities than differences between first and second generation mothers, the children of second generation mothers were significantly more likely to have socioemotional problems (38% vs 25%). Second generation mothers were more likely to have experienced intimate partner violence (33% vs. 22%), to have problems with depression (30% vs. 20%), and to rate their family functioning and attachment to their children as lower. Second generation mothers also reported a greater need for concrete support, such as cash and child care assistance. Mothers rated their experience with the child welfare system as a parent slightly lower than their first generation peers.

The relationship between second generation mothers and child socioemotional problems was mediated by lower family functioning and weaker attachment to their child. Decreased engagement with child welfare also mediated the relationship between second generation in child welfare and child socioemotional problems. Family supports were not significant mediators.

Implications.  Many second generation families are involved in the child welfare system, and they are at risk for many co-occurring problems. As a result, these families may have different service needs and may face some special challenges in achieving permanency if a child is removed from the home. Children of second generation parents may be more likely to show socioemotional problems and might benefit from early detection. Increased understanding of the specific needs of these families can help child welfare workers with case planning and recommendations.