This study examined the factors associated with the incidence of recurrence in children between the ages of birth to 5 years. A total of 684 referrals to the County of Ventura Children and Family Services (CFS) Department, received between July 1, 2007, and June 30, 2009, formed the sampling frame. Of this group, a total of 80 referrals were randomly selected. A case review method was used for data collection.

This study found that the incidence for recurrence was 14.9% among the Child Protective Service (CPS) cases. The study also found that White children, children from caregivers with a history of substance abuse or mental health problems, and cases with prior reports of substantiated maltreatment had a greater incidence of recurrence.

These findings suggest that child maltreatment recurrence is prevalent among the youngest and most vulnerable children. Intervention and prevention programs are needed to reduce the incidence of recurrence.