Recurrent violence against children: analysis of cases notified between 2011 and 2018 in Espirito Santo state, Brazil

Objective: To identify the frequency of reported cases and factors associated with recurrent childhood violence in Espirito Santo State, Brazil. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of cases notified on the Notifiable Health Conditions Information System between 2011-2018. Associations were tested using Pearson's Chi-Square test and Poisson Regression stratified by sex. Results: The frequency of recurrent violence was 32.5%. In boys, it was associated with the child's age (PR=1.38 - 95% CI 1.11;1.73) and the aggressor's age (PR=1.85 - 95% CI 1.30;2.63) and occurrence at home (PR=1.61 - 95% CI 1.23;2.11); in girls, it was associated with age (PR=1.39 - 95% CI 1.20;1.60), presence of disabilities/disorders in the victim (PR=1.43 - 95% CI 1.22;1.67), abusive parents (PR=3.70 - 95% CI 1.65;8.32) and occurrence at home (PR=1.39 - 95% CI 1.10;1.75). Conclusion: Recurrent violence was present in almost one third of the reports of violence against children in Espirito Santo State, requiring the recognition of its associated factors for the development of prevention policies.

Automated summary

In Espirito Santo State, Brazil, the frequency of recurrent violence against children was 32.5%. Factors associated with recurrent violence differed between boys and girls, with age of the child and aggressor, presence of disabilities/disorders in victims, abusive parents, and occurrence at home being significant factors.