Child Abuse and Mental Health

Written by Debbie Mahoney

Effects of Child Abuse

These are some of the typical physical, emotional and behavioral responses of children who have been abused. They may exhibit "symptoms" at different developmental stages. These responses overlay, and are not designed to be rigidly applied. They are general guidelines. All children respond to abuse individually. If you have any questions regarding symptoms please consult with a professional.

Impact of Child Abuse on Infants and Toddlers

Physical Abuse

• withdrawal/apathy
• aggressive behavior

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• head-banging
• hyper vigilance
• fearfulness/anxiety
• subdued crying
• clinginess
• poor eye contact
• indiscriminate attaching
• extreme or inappropriate reaction to pain

Sexual Abuse

• sexualized behavior (excessive masturbation or inserting objects)
• stiff body/difficulty sleeping, relaxing
• clingy
• difficulty eating
• colicky
• passive/withdrawn
• fussy

Neglect

• withdrawal/apathy
• rocking
• fearfulness
• lethargic

Impact of Child Abuse on Latency Age (age 6-11) Children

Physical Abuse

• withdrawal/apathy
• aggressive behavior
• self destructive behavior
• attention getting (e.g fire setting)
• self-mutilation/accident prone
• school difficulties
• speech or learning difficulties
• fear of failure
• drug or alcohol abuse
• running away

Sexual Abuse

• sexualized behavior
• inability to relate to peers
• seeks out or avoids adults
• parentified (pseudomature)
• manipulative behavior
• distracted easily/ daydreams
• eating disorders (bulimia, obesity, anorexia)
• school problems