Child mental health abuse is a widespread problem that usually goes unnoticed. Mental abuse of a child happens in families from all different backgrounds and groups. The signs of mental abuse usually go unseen and thus it becomes vital that people learn what to look for because the consequences can be devastating.
Child Abuse
Mental abuse of a child is not as likely to be apparent to the lay person as physical abuse might be, but it can be as devastating and terrifying as the physical scares and pain associated with physical abuse. Mental abuse comes from the neglect and emotional abuse of a child. Some parents and caregivers have little intention of harming their child but know no other way of parenting.
How It Happens
According to HelpGuide.org, mental abuse in children can develop from a variety of circumstances. Mental abuse is not limited to poor neighborhoods and broken homes. It is not bound to a certain racial, cultural or economic group--it spans across all of them. The majority of mental abuse children suffer comes from family members or others close to the family. A child is unlikely to suffer lasting mental abuse from a stranger.
Consequences
Mental abuse will leave lasting negative effects on the child's emotional development and wellbeing. Mayo Clinic reports that a variety of mental health disorders can manifest in children who have suffered emotional abuse or neglect. Some of these disorders include, but are not limited to, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, suicide, conduct disorder, post-traumatic stress, and dissociation. Also, a child can develop unclassified emotional effects ranging from low self-esteem to mistrust to violence and aggression.
Signs and Symptoms
Child neglect can be hard to determine because there are rarely apparent outward symptoms. HelpGuide.org suggests that child neglect results when the basic needs of the child are not met; for instance, the child is not provided with proper hygiene or a safe place to sleep at night. Children experiencing neglect might wear poor-fitting clothing, appear dirty or have a faint odor, hide or downplay illnesses or injuries , and may be late or miss school often. Children who experience emotional abuse or constant put downs and criticisms often display other signs. According to HelpGuide.org, theses signs include poor attachment to parent or caregiver, appearing anxious or fearful, exhibiting constant extremes in behaviors and taking on adult behaviors.
Considerations
Child neglect and emotional abuse occurs on a regular basis and is not limited to a particular group or sub-group of people. The consequences of mental abuse in children can be lifelong and devastating. It is important to understand mental abuse and what to look for so that more children can receive the care they need. If you think a child is experiencing abuse, call the Child Help National Child Abuse Hotline 1-800-4-A-CHILD.
