Physical child abuse is the second most common form of child abuse. The definition of physical child abuse varies from state to state but the general definition is any physical deliberate act by a caregiver that results in a child being hurt or injured. (Giovannoni, J., & Becerra, R., 1979) Children who are physically abused can develop child traumatic stress. They are also at risk for depression and anxiety. Child abuse has been linked to poor physical, emotional, and mental development. (Physical Abuse, n.d) The longer physical abuse of a child continues, the more serious the outcome. The initial impacts of physical abuse are difficult and emotionally traumatic for the child. The long-term results of physical abuse effect on the child …show more content…
(Effects of Child Physical Abuse, 2012)
As children, our world revolves around our parents or primary care-givers. Parents or care-givers are the primary source of safety, security, love, understanding, nurturance and support. Child abuse messes up a child’s outlook on the rest of the world. This negative relationship affects an individual’s capacity to establish and sustain significant attachments throughout life. Survivors often experience conflictual relationships and chaotic lifestyles, frequently report difficulties forming adult intimate attachments and display behaviors that threaten and disrupt close relationships. (Impact of Child Abuse,
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Many are the result of unresolved childhood abuse issues. The reasons are complex, yet for some survivors ongoing internal disorder keeps the foundation of the establishment of regularity, predictability and consistency. Numerous survivors live in 'crisis mode', reacting with provisional fixes to circumstances that don't resolve the fundamental issues. This can be exhausting and frustrating and add to sentiments of vulnerability and sadness. (Impact of Child Abuse, n.d.) Repeated exposure to stressful events can influence the brains stress reaction, making it oversensitive and less adaptive. With time a child may respond as though danger is constantly present in their surroundings regardless of what the current situation really is. (Comprehensive Treatment for Adult Survivors of Child Abuse and Neglect. 2011) Recent study found that almost 76% of adults reporting physical child abuse and neglect have at least one psychiatric disorder in their lifetime and nearly 50% have three or more psychiatric