The impact of abuse can persist for a lifetime after the abuse has been committed. Some victims of abuse are resilient and thus manage to function and survive. Much research has established the relationship between long-term child abuse and lifetime health and well being, especially if the children do not get appropriate support to help them cope with the trauma. The most important point to consider is that children often are exposed to multiple forms of abuse and suffer a myriad of symptoms. Furthermore, all forms of abuse have the potential for long-term impact on the victims, and can affect the victim's ability to function as a human being. Abuse challenges the self-value, self- esteem, and sense of worth of its victims, rendering them hopeless, helpless and unable to live a complete life.
Long-term impact of abuse
Poor educational achievement
Inability to complete responsibilities
Inability to live according to plan/ability
Inability to care for self
Inability to coexist, cooperate or work with others
Lack of self-confidence, prone to addiction
Inability to express love / or accept love
Inability to lead family, constant health problem
Prone to mental health problems
Low self-esteem, depression and anxiety
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Attachment difficulties
Eating disorders
Poor peer relations, self-injurious behavior (e.g., suicide attempts)