A report tracking children born in Ireland since 1998 shows that the recession has seen different types of families become economically vulnerable.

The ESRI's Growing Up in Ireland study indicates the traditional profile of a poorer family has changed - and that two parent families, with a higher level of education became economically vulnerable during the recession.

The report suggests a broader range of supports are needed to support vulnerable families - notably employment and childcare supports.

The Growing Up In Ireland longitudinal study will be launched by the Children's Minister James Reilly today.

Speaking ahead of the launch, Minister Reilly said the government has committed to tackling economic hardship through its Better Outcomes - Brighter Futures policy framework.

The report also shows that children in families which have experienced poverty in the recession have suffered greater behavioural problems.

The 20,000 children found that the risk there were "strongly negative" consequences for children's emotional development if families were vulnerable for "longer periods of time".

Dr Dorothy Watson says that while parents may try to protect their children from the financial reality - it still has an impact: