For children with a history of abuse or neglect, the emotional trauma remains long after the external bruises have healed. Often the severe emotional damage to abused children does not surface until adolescence or later. Without treatment, there is a risk of lifelong damage. Battering is not the only kind of child abuse.
Many children are victims of neglect, or sexual or emotional abuse.
A child who is the victim of prolonged sexual abuse usually develops low self-esteem, a feeling of worthlessness and an abnormal perspective on sexuality. The child may become withdrawn and mistrustful of adults, and can become suicidal. Often there are no physical signs of sexual abuse, or signs that only a physician can detect, such as changes in the genital or anal area. With interventions such as family support services, and therapy, an abused child can begin to regain a sense of self-confidence and trust. Treatment also helps family members understand how to assist the child in overcoming the trauma.