What Are the Effects of Child Abuse?

Child abuse can have a lifelong impact on a child’s physical and mental health

Child abuse can have a devastating effect on a child’s beliefs, self-esteem, development and ability to function. Abuse often occurs repeatedly and involves more than one type, resulting in lifelong complications to a child’s mental and physical health.

The physical, emotional, and psychological effects of abuse on children and young adults may include the following:

Physical health

Physical child abuse may result in minor injuries such as bruises or abrasions, or severe injuries such deep lacerations, broken bones, or internal bleeding. These physical injuries can also result in long-term emotional damage.

Mental health

The impact on a child’s mental health can persist well into adulthood. Child abuse can result in mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders.

Childhood trauma

Trauma from child abuse can result in the child having issues with trust, behavior, communication, and relationships. Victims may be aggressive, violent, and prone to drug and alcohol abuse or suicidal thoughts. They may have difficulty learning or holding onto a job. They may also deal with anxiety and constant fear.

Brain development

Child abuse can affect a child’s brain development and cognitive abilities, causing difficulties with speech and language. Victims may have learning disorders or regression of skills or development.

Social difficulties

Children who are abused and neglected are often fearful and have trust issues. They may have difficulty communicating and maintaining relationships. They may be insecure, anxious, aggressive, withdrawn, or clingy.

Behavioral issues

Child abuse can lead to behavioral issues during childhood and young adulthood. Victims may have emotional outbursts, changes in mood, changes in behavior, sadness, withdrawal, aggressiveness, violence, hyperactivity, bed-wetting, low self-esteem, etc. Some of these behaviors can continue into adulthood.