Maltreatment in the Home
Psychology Journalist Allison Robinson describes the mental effects of domestic abuse.
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The Effects of Early Trauma on the Brain
The Effects of Early Trauma on the Brain
By Allison Robinson
By Allison Robinson
The purpose of this article is to inform and to help people. However, some may find the topics discussed triggering. If anyone needing assistance in reference to these topics, feel free to contact these numbers:
Domestic Abuse Hotline: 1 (800) 799-7233
Mental Help Hotline: (877) 995-5247
Young brains are impressionable. When maltreated, children’s ability to integrate information can be impacted. Chronic maltreatment, or frequent and recurring incidents of maltreatment according to researcher Cathryn Hunter from The Australian Institute of Family Studies, can cause long-term issues in cognitive and behavioral development, as well as in both mental and physical health.
Child abuse and neglect refers to any behavior by parents or caregivers that entails a substantial risk of causing physical or emotional harm to a child, as described by Hunter. It can range from physical or emotional maltreatment, neglect, sexual abuse, or even witnessing violence in the home. When a victim has few protective factors, such as positive relationships, the risk of experiencing serious adverse outcomes may increase. Furthermore, when domestic abuse is mixed with disadvantages like socio-economic issues, social isolation, or a caregiver experiencing depression or substance dependence, risks of chronic and debilitating issues become more of a danger.
As stated above, young children are extremely impressionable. This is especially true in the first year of life. In The Sun Magazine’s interview with child and adolescent psychiatrist Bruce Perry, it is revealed that even if a child is put into the foster system, abused in any way, or experiences any other sort of trauma, they will function reasonably well as adolescents if their first year was healthy. In contrast, when the first year is traumatic for a child, profound social and emotional problems may last into adulthood.
A child’s first year is so crucial because brains are chronically altered by the environment the child is raised in. When threats in an abusive home during childhood are too extreme, persistent, or frequent, children can experience desensitization. This can cause young kids to be overly stressed and in some cases even cause PTSD.
One of the most severe and common outcomes of domestic maltreatment is worsened mental health. Unfortunately, many victims experience Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, and heightened anxiety. These can lead to higher suicide rates. PTSD can activate the part of the brain associated with fear, even when there is no threat. Stress signals are released, which in turn cause behavioral and mental problems.
The brain, especially young brains, are greatly affected by maltreatment. Any form of abuse is unacceptable. If anyone is experiencing domestic abuse, mental health issues, or knows anybody that faces these struggles, it is encouraged to contact one of the hotlines listed above for help.
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