Situational analysis of poverty and violence among children and youth with disabilities in the Americas an agenda proposal

Abstract

This article reviews the prevalence of poverty in Latin America and the Caribbean discussing the cycle and culture of poverty, their links to violence and maltreatment among disabled children and youth, from 1990 to 2006. There is a discussion of child maltreatment both of typical and disabled children taking into consideration the disabled child's unique needs, the impact on the family and society and the availability of supports and resources. Finally, an agenda is set forth to address poverty and violence, seeking to diminish the prevalence of maltreatment of all children, but especially children with disabilities. In addition, there is the hope of breaking the cycle of poverty and supporting disabled and marginalized individuals. This agenda speaks to the need for multidisciplinary collaboration as well as collaboration regionally and locally among governmental and non-governmental agencies, advocacy groups and the community at large.