The Impact of Poverty-Related Policy Expansions on Child Maltreatment: A Scoping Review of a Broad Policy Set

Abstract

Given the strong link between poverty and child maltreatment, this study explores the impact of nine poverty-reduction policies—Childcare Subsidies, Child Tax Credits, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit, Housing Choice Voucher, Minimum Wage, Medicaid, Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)—on child maltreatment outcomes. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we reviewed studies published through June 2025 across five databases (EBSCO, ProQuest, Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed), focusing on articles assessing policy expansions related to child maltreatment. After screening, 29 studies met our inclusion criteria. Broader expansions in programs, such as EITC, SNAP, Childcare Subsidies, Minimum Wage, and Medicaid, were generally associated with reductions in child maltreatment, particularly neglect, and, in some cases, physical abuse. Combined policy expansions were also linked to reduced maltreatment. In contrast, limited changes—such as more flexible redetermination procedures or copayment adjustments—had little effect unless introduced alongside broader eligibility expansions. Neglect appears more responsive to economic interventions, suggesting that other abuse types may require additional supports beyond income assistance. To maximize effectiveness, future efforts should expand proven programs and strengthen weaker ones through improved design and implementation. Even established programs require continued attention to equity, including administrative and geographic barriers limiting access for eligible families.

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