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Understanding the Effects of Maltreatment on Brain Development
Series: Issue Briefs |
Author(s):
Child Welfare Information Gateway
|
Year Published: 2009 |
Issue briefs include a review of research and policies to bring together current information with examples of promising practices.
In recent years, there has been a surge of research into early brain development. New technologies, such as neuroimaging (e.g., magnetic resonance imaging or MRI), provide increased insight into how the brain develops and how early experiences affect that development.
One area that has been receiving increasing research attention involves the effects of abuse and neglect on the developing brain, especially during infancy and early childhood. Much of this research is providing biological explanations for what practitioners have long been describing in psychological, emotional, and behavioral terms. There is now scientific evidence of altered brain functioning as a result of early abuse and neglect. This emerging body of knowledge has many implications for the prevention and treatment of child abuse and neglect.
This bulletin provides basic information on brain development and the effects of abuse and neglect on that development. The information is designed to help professionals understand the emotional, mental, and behavioral impact of early abuse and neglect in children who come to the attention of the child welfare system.
Table of Contents
- How the Brain Develops
- Effects of Maltreatment on Brain Development
- Implications for Practice and Policy
- Summary and Highlighted Resources
References
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