Child abuse is the physical, emotional or sexual abuse or neglect of children by parents, guardians, or others. Child abuse happens in all cultural, ethnic, and income groups. Abuse may cause serious injury to the child and may even result in death. There are many effects of child abuse. Emotional effects include low self-esteem, depression and anxiety, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, alienation and withdrawal, and personality disorders. Physical effects include injury, death, lifelong health problems, cognitive difficulties, and physical disabilities. Behavioral effects include problems in school and work, delinquency, teen pregnancy, suicide attempts, criminal or antisocial behavior, substance abuse, aggressive behavior, spousal and child abuse, and anger.

Child abuse can have dire effect.during both childhood and adulthood. The effects of being abused as a child vary according to the severity of the abuse and the surrounding environment of the child. If the family or school environment is nurturing and supportive, the child will probably have a healthier outcome. There are many causes of child abuse. Mental illness is another common factor, with many abusers having personality disorder or other severe forms of mental illness. Psychosocial factors also play a role.Stress, including the stress of caring for children, or the stress of caring for a child with a disability, special needs, or difficult behaviors. Many times, physical abuse is a result of excessive discipline or physical punishment that is inappropriate for the child's age.

The parent may simply be unaware of the magnitude of force with which he or she strikes a child. Chronic maltreatment can be treated effectively with Cognitive Behavioral therapy interventions, other therapeutic interventions, education, EMDR and other approaches. Reducing the incidence of child abuse is a matter of education and intervention. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a psychotherapy based on modifying cognitions, assumptions, beliefs and behaviors, with the aim of influencing disturbed emotions. Medication can be useful for the symptoms of depression, anxiety and other symptoms. Child abuse prevention is a societal and governmental issue. When children reach age three, parents should begin teaching them about "bad touches" and about confiding in a suitable adult.

Child Abuse Treatment and Preventin Tips

1. In child abuse cases Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is also recommended.

2. Some medication can be useful for the symptoms of depression, anxiety and other symptoms.

3. When children reach age three, parents should begin teaching them about "bad touches".

4. Some time for children, play therapy and family therapy can be helpful.