Characteristics of Child Victims of Physical Violence

This article reviews recent empirical studies that examine the short- and long-term sequelae of physical child maltreatment (PCM). The current status of research examining the impact of PCM on children's development (e.g., medical, cognitive) and psychosocial functioning (e.g., psychiatric disorders, behavioral, interpersonal, academic, affective) is reviewed. Major findings are discussed in the context of pertinent qualifications of existing evidence. To encourage clinical-research advances in this area, recent developments and future directions pertaining to the areas of conceptualization, assessment/methodology, and intervention are described.