Risk and Protective Factors of Food Insecurity Among Children in Low-Income Families in the United States: Application of the Multiple Disadvantage Model

Abstract

This study investigated relationships between low-income children’s food insecurity and five factors: social disorganization, social structural factors, social relationships, health/mental health, and access to services. A sample of 12,215 low-income children and parents was extracted from the 2021 National Survey of Children’s Health. Logistic regression results showed the likelihood of such children’s food insecurity to be associated positively with several factors: racial discrimination, child aged 6–10 years, child aged 11–13 years, child aged 14–17 years, Black child, child’s chronic health condition, family member mental health problem, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program participation, receipt of Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, and lunch program participation. As well, children’s food insecurity likelihood was associated negatively with parents’ age and education, neighbor support, parents’ general health and mental health, and receipt of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. Research implications include interventions at the individual level (e.g., screening for food insecurity, treatment of sick or mentally ill family members), community level (e.g., food pantries, neighbor support network), and macro level (e.g., advocating for racial/ethnic minorities, expanding cash and food benefits).

The authors' abstract, as published at the source. European Journal of Investigation in Health Psychology and Education, 2026 · DOI ↗