NCJ Number
172303
Date Published
1996
Length
18 pages
Annotation
Psychological maltreatment of children is part of many forms of child abuse and neglect but it also exists in its own discreet forms, and recent research suggests psychological maltreatment has a strong influence on developmental outcomes of other forms of child abuse and neglect.
Abstract
Psychological maltreatment may take the form of spurning, terrorizing, isolating, exploiting or corrupting, denying emotional responsiveness, neglecting mentally and physically, and neglecting educationally. Conceptual issues associated with psychological maltreatment include distinguishing acts of psychological maltreatment from consequences, concentration on psychological dimensions of maltreatment separate from physical correlates, and consideration of both direct and indirect forms of psychological maltreatment. The true incidence of psychological maltreatment is not known; unless it occurs with other forms of severe abuse, psychological maltreatment is likely to be unreported. Nonetheless, based on theories of child development and child psychopathology, psychological maltreatment is likely to produce maladaptive deviancy, retard and distort development and functioning, and lead to withdrawal and aggression. Research has also established relationships between psychological maltreatment and problems of attachment, social competence, social adjustment, behavior, cognitive ability, and educational achievement. Theoretical models relevant to psychological maltreatment are examined, and implications of research findings for the treatment of victims and their families are discussed. Priorities for a research agenda on psychological maltreatment are suggested. 97 references and 2 tables