Jana Tellez
Aug 31, 2018 · 3 min read

THE PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF NEGLECT AND ABUSE

There are over 7.4 million child abuse reports. Children are emotionally, physically, and sexually abused in their own homes. What is more surprising is the fact that family members that know about the abuse will often keep to themselves, and stay quiet rather than help out. Something like this will cause a child to have depression, low self-esteem, anxiety, the inability to trust others and much more.

Emotional abuse is hardly ever mentioned because the main reports are physical or sexual abuse. Although Emotional abuse may nearly have the same effects as physical. Emotional abuse is more likely to damage an infant or toddler. Every child is born expected to feel loved, nurtured, and accepted by their parents. Although in some cases some are belittled and disrespected and spoke to in anger. This can lead a child to have self-esteem issues, be withdrawn, and have problems developing as a successful adult.

Physical abuse is the most obvious form of abuse and yet it can be the hardest to delineate because people draw the line in different places. There are parents who spank their child, parents who whip their child with a belt, and parents who would outright punch their kid in the face if they “stepped out of line.” Some would argue that corporal punishment is healthy and useful because it results in a well-mannered and disciplined child. However, research states children that were abused are often destructive, angry, sleepless and are more prone to have suicidal behavior. Studies also show those who have been abused grow up to be delinquents, abuse alcohol and or use drugs.

Sexual abuse is also both physical and emotional in nature. It is the most controversial of the abuses and unfortunately the form of abuse that is often the most well-hidden. Many victims of sexual abuse are scared to speak up. Worst of all they grow up having psychological disorders that affects their everyday interaction with others. Victims of sexual abuse will live most of their adult lives angry, depressed, and feeling hopeless. Without the proper care and mental health evaluation it can lead to a downward spiral.

With over 7.4 million reports of child abuse why do we not hear and talk about it more often? People rather ignore and believe abuse is not happening than to intervene when it is needed. When a child is being emotionally abused you can see the lack of confidence in their eyes. When a child is being physically abused they walk with their heads down depressed or walk around with marks on their skin finding excuses to cover up the truth. Sexually abused children are crying for help and no one is hearing them. Society has to be aware of the signs and symptoms to look out for these children. The sooner we help the better the outcome for our future generation.

Citations

Child Welfare Information Gateway. (2013). Long-term consequences of child abuse and neglect. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Children’s Bureau.

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