Child abuse and neglect can have immediate and long-term effects. Being abused or neglected as a child is linked to physical, emotional, and behavioral issues later in life. Child abuse and neglect can also affect future generations through intergenerational trauma. In this section, learn how child abuse and neglect affects children, adolescents, and adult survivors; examine the impact of abuse and neglect on child development as well as long-term consequences for adults with a history of abuse; and explore impacts by type of abuse, family factors, and social and economic consequences.
- Impact by type of maltreatment
- Impact of child abuse and neglect on child development
- Long-term consequences of child abuse and neglect
- Social and economic consequences of abuse and neglect
ACEs and Minorities
Jamieson (2018)
Center for Child Counseling
Discusses the higher levels of exposure to adverse childhood experiences by minority children in the United States and how it is important to build resilience and promote healthy relationships for these children.
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Defines ACEs and presents resources analyzing the relationship between childhood trauma and health and negative behavioral outcomes later in life.
The Childhood Violent Trauma Center
Provides resources and a bibliographic database of information on the effects of violence exposure on children. The center also provides training and technical assistance to a variety of collaborative community programs that respond to children and families exposed to violence.
Creating Positive Childhood Experiences
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Explains the effects of adverse childhood experiences and toxic stress on children and offers ways to promote positive childhood experiences by supporting children and families.
Equity in Action: Prioritizing and Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families (2022)
Outlines the significance and importance of racial equity in the field of child welfare and highlights research identifying disparities with implications for the field.