Adverse Outcomes to Early Middle Age Linked With Childhood Residential Mobility

Abstract

This research undertaken in Denmark shows the links between childhood residential mobility and multiple adverse outcomes through to maturity, and effect modification of these associations by familial SES, are incompletely understood.

This research work has relevance to all developed countries with high mobility of young children and their families.

It is estimated the average number of times a family moves who rent in the private rental market in Australia is every 2-3years.

The links between childhood residential mobility and negative outcomes in later life appear widespread across multiple endpoints, with elevation in risk being particularly marked if frequent residential change occurs during early/mid-adolescence.

Heightened vigilance is indicated for relocated adolescents and their families, with a view to preventing longer-term adverse outcomes in this population among all socioeconomic groups.

Risk management will require close cooperation among multiple public agencies, particularly child, adolescent, and adult mental health services.

This national cohort examined risks across three adverse outcome domains:

1 Self-directed and interpersonal violence: attempted suicide, violent criminality;

2 Mental illness and substance misuse: any psychiatric diagnosis, substance misuse; and

3 Premature mortality: natural and unnatural deaths.