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Cognitive functioning, and behavioral and emotional adjustment in maltreated children post-intervention
Summary
Children previously maltreated showed emotional maladjustment, anxiety, and aggression years after intervention. They struggled with self-confidence and perceiving support, indicating lasting effects of early adversity.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Child maltreatment can have profound, lasting impacts on development.
- Early intervention is crucial for children exposed to adversity.
- Family placement (adoptive vs. biological) may influence outcomes post-intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess long-term cognitive and psychosocial outcomes in previously maltreated children.
- To compare outcomes between children placed in adoptive versus biological families post-intervention.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a day treatment program for maltreated preschoolers.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study evaluating children four years post-intervention.
- Assessment of cognitive functioning and behavioral/emotional adjustment.
- Comparison with clinical and nonclinical populations.
Main Results:
- Children exhibited emotional maladjustment comparable to clinical populations, with increased anxiety and aggression.
- Lower self-confidence and impaired ability to perceive social support were observed.
- Limited ability to seek support and below-average problem-resolution skills were noted.
Conclusions:
- Early maltreatment and intervention have persistent effects on children's emotional and social functioning.
- Adoptive or biological family placement may not fully mitigate long-term psychosocial challenges.
- Further support and interventions are needed for maltreated children even after initial treatment.