Premium
Physical and emotional abuse and neglect of preschool children: A literature review
Author(s) -
Wright Shelley A.
Publication year - 1994
Publication title -
australian occupational therapy journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.595
H-Index - 44
eISSN - 1440-1630
pISSN - 0045-0766
DOI - 10.1111/j.1440-1630.1994.tb01814.x
Subject(s) - psychology , empathy , developmental psychology , neglect , competence (human resources) , occupational therapy , cognition , clinical psychology , psychiatry , social psychology
Early studies of the consequences of maltreatment for preschool children were plagued by numerous methodological difficulties, including a lack of theoretical frameworks. More recent studies have investigated the complex interaction of factors, such as the environment and pre‐existing child characteristics. This review examines the effects of maltreatment on preschool children in four areas: (i) developmental delay; (ii) cognitive competence; (iii) emotional development (attachment relationships and empathy); and (iv) social development. The developmental domains requiring further investigation are highlighted: motor, self‐care and play skills of abused preschoolers. Recommendations are made regarding the contribution of occupational therapy to these areas.