Psychological Characteristics of Maltreated Children: Putative Risk Factors and Consequences

Although there is considerable evidence that the maltreatment of children is widespread and that it can have significant adverse effects on the victims, specific abuse-outcome patterns are not obvious beyond the link between physical abuse and aggression, and the link between sexual abuse and poor sexual adjustment. Although concepts of invulnerability or child resilience are somewhat controversial (see Rutter 1983), some children from severely maltreating backgrounds do not evidence apparent adverse outcomes (e.g. Farber & Egeland 1987, Herrenkohl et al 1991). It is unknown whether the more favorable outcomes are the result of child resilience or the influence of environmental buffers. More research clearly is needed to fully understand the behavioral risks and consequences of maltreatment.