Child Abandonment & Effects On Children

Abandonment may be considered a type of neglect, according to Drugs.com. It occurs when someone has withdrawn or given up on supporting a child, or left a child alone in dangerous circumstances. North Dakota State University says abandonment is a common fear for children. It is important to understand the types of abandonment and effects on a child in order to provide comfort and care.

Types

Abandonment can be psychological or physical. Psychological abandonment can occur when the parent stops bonding with the child or becomes mentally disabled. Physical abandonment can be the result of death, giving the child away or ceasing to have contact with the child in the event of a divorce. The parent may abandon the child because she feels overwhelmed or incompetent or finds herself in an unwanted or unaccepted role of parenting.

Importance of Bonds

Bonding is very important for child development, and abandonment can disrupt this development. According to Focus Adolescent Services, a child needs attachment in order to develop emotionally and survive. The mother-child bond is especially important in order to learn trust. Contemporary Psychoanalysis states that a father-child bond helps to foster development in a son and also helps a daughter form a an identity separate from her mother and relate to her social world.

General Effects

A child who has been abandoned may become withdrawn, angry and restless. He may fear that he will be abandoned again and develop nightmares or a fear of sleeping alone. He might also cry, have feelings of guilt and question the intentions of other loved ones in his life. An older child may search for love and security elsewhere in potentially dangerous situations. The effects of abandonment may vary according to the child’s age and bond with the parent who abandoned him, but it is possible for him to carry lingering distrust and resentment into adulthood.

Attachment Disorder

A child may develop attachment disorder, a severe effect of abandonment. Focus Adolescent Services states that it can develop in a child’s first three years of life if she does not attach or bond with her mother, which can be the result of sudden abandonment. Symptoms include control problems, dishonestly, learning difficulties and defiant, destructive or impulsive behavior.

How to Help

If a child is abandoned, the earlier he receives intervention, the better. Encourage him to discuss his feelings and reassure him if he fears being abandoned again. Be sure that he fosters nurturing relationships with other loved ones and family members. If you are concerned about his behavior or emotional state, take him to see a doctor.