Karl Pillemer says, “It doesn’t matter whether you’re the chosen child or not, the perception of unequal treatment has damaging effects for all siblings.” You might think that the preferred child would benefit from all the positive attention, but that's not what happens. It can be very damaging when a parent makes it clear that they prefer one child over another, and children are more likely to exhibit depression later in life as a result. If you yell at your child, call him or her names, use corporal punishment, or say that he or she is no good, the damage can be permanent. A child requires positive physical contact with their parent in the form of hugs, kisses, and other signs of affection. Punishment might be required when a child does something wrong, but when they are extensively punished for small matters, it may backfire. Some abused children may develop eating disorders, struggle with sleep issues, become hostile, apathetic, or lethargic, and develop attention deficit disorders.
Aside from observable signs of physical damage, the effects of verbal and physical abuse might manifest as depression, anxiety, or high-risk behaviors such as casual sex, self-harm, crime, chemical dependency, and other unhealthy, dangerous behaviors. Victims will also most likely struggle with poor physical and mental health as a result. These forms of abuse can cause the child to lose confidence and develop an inferiority complex.Īccording to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, verbal and physical abuse can cause lifelong psychological, physical, behavioral, and economic problems. Even one spanking or slur can affect a child for years. Many parents vent their frustrations at their children without realizing what sort of psychological damage they are inflicting. Physical or Verbal AbuseĮxposing a child to physical violence or verbal abuse can be very damaging to his or her well-being. Make it clear to your kids that you love them and appreciate them. Make time to talk to your kids and bond with them. Pay attention to your children and prioritize their well-being. Solution: A child needs to feel loved and cherished. Those who don’t get the attention they need in childhood may have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships later in life.
Neglect can also affect intellectual functioning and academic achievement. According to The Lasting Impact of Neglect by Kiersten Wier, neglect can lead to a long list of problems including low self-esteem, social withdrawal, poor impulse control, stealing, problems coping with or regulating emotions, and pathological behaviors like tics, tantrums, and self-harm. Neglect can negatively affect a child's cognition, emotions, behavior, motor development, language development, and overall ability to function.