Treatment
The law requires health care workers, school employees, and child care professionals to report suspected abuse.
Treatment of the abused child may include nutritional and mental health therapy.
It may be necessary to remove the child from the home to prevent further abuse.
Treatment for abusers may involve parenting classes and treatment for mental illness, alcohol, or drug abuse.
Support Groups
There are many support groups available, including:
Prevent Child Abuse America – www.preventchildabuse.org
Prognosis (Expectations)
With treatment, many children and parents can be reunited as a family. The long-term outcome depends on:
- How severe the abuse was
- For how long the child was abused
- The success of therapy and parenting classes
Complications
As in all forms of child abuse, severe injury or death is possible.
Other long-term problems may include:
- Becoming an abuser in adulthood
- Depression
- Lack of self confidence
- Rebellious behavior
Calling Your Health Care Provider
Call your health care provider if a child has:
- Physical changes, such as unexplained injuries, weight loss, or severe tiredness
- Unexplained behavior changes
Suspected child abuse of any form must be reported to the authorities.
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Child neglect and psychological abuse : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
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Child neglect and psychological abuse : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
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Child neglect and psychological abuse : Treatment
Review Date : 3/14/2009
Reviewed By : Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.viewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
