O impacto da negligência infantil e os déficits emocionais e comportamentais: uma revisão integrativa

Abstract

Objective. This study proposes to investigate the impact of childhood neglect and long-term emotional and behavioral deficits. Method. This is an integrative review conducted from four databases, and a total of 32 articles were included after screening the titles, abstracts and reading the full text. Results. The consequences of child neglect already in childhood were attributed to internalizing problems such as loneliness and depression, and externalizing problems of aggressiveness and impulsivity. On the other hand, in adolescence and adulthood, the impact of childhood neglect presented itself with consequences associated with criminal behavior, substance abuse, and mental disorders. Emotional neglect and physical neglect were the most prevalent types associated with internalizing and externalizing problems. Conclusion. The long-term impact of neglect was associated with aggressive, impulsive, criminal behavior, and emotional deficits associated with depression, suicide, and personality disorders. Regarding the devastating consequences of child neglect, this study seeks to promote a better understanding of these outcomes by health professionals, as to the identification of signs and symptoms characteristic of this form of maltreatment.