Clinical Implications of Child Abuse

Research suggests that undisclosed sexual abuse ona single trauma or continued abuse.
children has important clinical implications. ChildrenOlder children with verbal communication capacity can
encounter shock that threatens their integrity andcommunicate their experience of traumatic episodes.
wellbeing due to the extremely aversive nature ofHowever, in infants, behavioral changes may be the
the event. Critical psychological setbacks may build uponly discernible signs of distress. The symptoms of
in the victim as a consequence of this childhoodPTSD can be subtle and may bear a resemblance to
trauma. The upshot of the molestation may beother psychosomatic and behavioral disarrays. These
deferred till the child grows into an adult. Lastinginclude the following:
physical and emotional effects that are frequentlyIntense trepidation, terror, or confused or restless
observed consist of melancholy, aggressiveness andbehavior because the child re-lives the episode (e.g.,
self-destructive conduct, nervousness, a mind-set ofthrough flashbacks or nightmares).
seclusion and disgrace, reduced sense of self-worth,Deadened emotional responsiveness.
lack of trust in other people that impedes relationshipSymptoms like unexplained stomachaches and
formation, substance abuse, and deficiency inheadaches.
adjusting to healthy sexual relations.Trouble in sound sleep, uncontrolled urination while
The graveness of long-standing impact of abusesleeping.
outweighs its instantaneous, observable outcomes.Insufficient attention, violent and disobedient manners
Serious clinical complications may involve brain(resulting in the misdiagnosis of a conduct disorder)
damage, hindrance in growth and development of thePhobias.
mind, problems and setback in learning. If survivors ofKeeping away from people avoidance, emotional
child abuse are neglect then at later life they may beconstriction.
exposed to risks for involving low academicPhysiologic hyperarousal.
achievement, drug use, teen pregnancy, and criminalLearning disability
behavior. These outcomes influence not just the childProlonged PTSD can bring about changes in the
and his or her immediate family, but society in itsmicro-structural design of the brain.
entirety.Parental support, providing a secure environment to
In light of these findings, it is imperative that timelygrow up in, reduces susceptibility of the traumatized
detection of sexual abuse victims is vital for lesseningchildren to PTSD than children who suffer constant
of affliction, development of psychological maturity,abuse. The caregiver must not be shaken,
and for improved adult performance.devastated, or withdrawn in response to this trying
One of the long-term effects of sexual transgressionsituation. Reassurance by the child's caregiver helps in
on children is posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).stabilizing the emotional balance of the child.
This risk is present whether the child is subjected to