Adult opinions about the age at which children can be left home alone, bathe alone,or bike alone: Second Injury Control and Risk Survey (ICARIS-2)

摘要

Problem: This study describes adult opinions about child supervision during various activities. Methods: Data come from a survey of U.S. adults. Respondents were asked the minimum age a child could safely: stay home alone; bathe alone; or ride a bike alone. Respondents with children were asked if their child had ever been allowed to: play outside alone; play in a room at home for more than 10minutes alone; bathe with another child; or bathe alone. Results: The mean age that adults believed a child could be home alone was 13.0years (95% CI = 12.9-13.1), bathe alone was 7.5years (95% CI = 7.4-7.6). or bike alone was 10.lyears (95% CI = 10.0-10.3). There were significant differences by income, education, and race. Discussion: Assessing adult's understanding of the appropriate age for independent action helps set a context for providing guidance on parental supervision. Guidelines for parents should acknowledge social norms and child development stages. Impact on Industry: Knowledge of social norms can help guide injury prevention messages for parents.