New Data Reveals Rise in Child Detentions, Advocates Warn of Lasting Psychological Trauma
A stark new report has shed light on the alarming rise in child detentions across the United States, sparking concern among advocates and experts that the trend may have severe and long-lasting consequences for the young people involved.
According to data released by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), there was a significant increase in the number of migrant children detained at the US-Mexico border in the first quarter of 2022 compared to the same period last year. The numbers are particularly concerning for children under the age of 12, who have seen a 40% increase in detentions, with over 12,000 young children held in custody.
The surge in detentions is attributed, in part, to increased efforts by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to stem the flow of migrants attempting to cross the border. However, advocates for migrant children warn that the rise in detentions is not only driven by immigration policy, but also by a lack of resources and support for migrant families.
"This is not just a matter of policy, it’s a humanitarian crisis," said Maria Hernandez, executive director of the Migrant Children’s Shelter. "These children are being held in detention facilities that are not equipped to provide the care and attention they need. It’s a recipe for disaster, and we’re seeing the devastating consequences every day."
The psychological impact of child detention is a major concern for advocates and experts. Research has shown that being held in detention can lead to long-term psychological trauma, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Children who are held in detention for extended periods are also at risk of developing attachment disorders and having difficulty forming healthy relationships as adults.
"It’s imperative that we recognize the short- and long-term harm that child detention can cause," said Dr. Lea la Serna, a child psychologist who has worked with migrant children in detention. "These children are not just statistics; they are human beings who deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. It’s our responsibility to provide them with safe and compassionate care."
Advocates are calling on policymakers to take immediate action to address the crisis, including providing additional resources for migrant shelters and increasing efforts to reunite families who have been separated at the border. They are also urging parents and caregivers to seek help and support for children who have been affected by the crisis.
"This is a call to action for our community," said Hernandez. "We need to stand together and demand that our leaders take responsibility for protecting the most vulnerable among us. We can’t sit idly by while our children are being held in detention facilities that are unfit for human habitation. It’s time for us to take action and make a difference."
As the situation continues to unfold, advocates and experts are echoing a unified message: that the well-being and welfare of migrant children must take precedence over politics and policy. It is imperative that we recognize the humanity and dignity of these children, and work to provide them with the care and support they need to thrive in the face of adversity.
Sources:
- Department of Homeland Security, "Quarterly Report to Congress on Immigration Enforcement and Removals" (April 2022)
- Migrant Children’s Shelter, "Detention Fact Sheet" (2022)
- American Academy of Pediatrics, "Detention of Migrant Children and the Risk of Long-term Psychological Trauma" (2020)
