The Effects of Child AbuseUnfortunately, five children die every day due to abuse and neglect. According to the World Health Organization, “Mental disorders and suicidal behaviors are side effects of maltreatment of infants and young children. Some harmful behaviors caused by abuse may include: depression, alcohol and substance abuse, smoking, anxiety disorders, hatred and violence toward others, PTSD, and increased sexual behaviors” (Violence and Injury Prevention). This paper will examine the side effects of child abuse. Immediate Effects of Child Abuse Physical abuse occurs when one individual intentionally harms another. Some of the physical effects of child abuse include: • Bruises, burns, bite marks, broken bones, etc. unexplained. • Head and internal injuries • Antisocial behavior • Problems at school • Fear of adults (immediate effects of child abuse) -Long-term effects of child abuse Child abuse interferes with vital developmental periods. Chronic stress and traumatic experiences make the prefrontal cortex vulnerable, leading to poor intellectual development and decision-making functioning. This type of functioning is responsible for many daily functions, including: planning, organizing, inhibition, problem solving, reasoning, and the ability to remember and pay attention (Widom and Nikulina, 2013). According to an article on ChildHelp, “American prisons are home to 50 percent of men and women who were abused as children. And unfortunately, about 33 percent of abused and/or neglected children will abuse their own children” (National Child Abuse Statistics).• In the United States, an alarming number of children, 1,570, died in 2011. ..... middle of paper ...... memorable events in the past and can move on. When considering treatment methods, it is also essential to be aware of the child's cultural heritage. To truly understand how to help, caregivers need to know the customs and beliefs of their particular culture. Abusive parents generally feel unloved and unworthy of themselves. They themselves were deprived of a childhood and have very low self-esteem. It is therefore important to treat both parents and children. Child abuse is certainly a problem that can be prevented. Parents should be informed of ways to prevent it and cope with their stress. They should also seek help if necessary. Children are the leaders of tomorrow and it is essential to educate them correctly. We need a confident new generation to lead us. And it is the duty of parents to ensure that their physical and emotional needs are met..