Childhood Neglect What is it and why is it so damaging?

Today I offer some reflections about childhood trauma and neglect.

I share some reflections about the work of Bessel Van der Kolk, Gabor Mate and Judith Herman. 

I like to look through the indexes of many authors before I prepare a video or audio. Interestingly, there were no references to neglect in any of the books in the indexes.

Why is it that so few publications talk about neglect?

And yet as Simon Partridge shares: “There is a growing consensus, backed by neuroscience & among traumatologists that neglect is even more damaging to the developing child and its brain than acute abuse. As Camila Batmanghelidjh put it when I asked her once: “Because abuse, however awful, has a beginning, a middle, and an end: for a child, neglect goes on forever.”

I quote from the NSPCC: "Neglect is the ongoing failure to meet a child's basic needs and the most common form of child abuse. A child might be left hungry or dirty, or without proper clothing, shelter, supervision or health care. This can put children and young people in danger. And it can also have long term effects on their physical and mental well-being." NSPCC 

https://www.nspcc.org.uk/what-is-child-abuse/types-of-abuse/neglect/

Physical neglect. A child's basic needs, such as food, clothing or shelter, are not met or they aren't properly supervised or kept safe.

Educational neglect. A parent doesn't ensure their child is given an education.

Emotional neglect. A child doesn't get the nurture and stimulation they need. This could be through ignoring, humiliating, intimidating or isolating them.

Medical neglect. A child isn't given proper health care. This includes dental care and refusing or ignoring medical recommendations.

Neglect changes childhood. Children who've been neglected might experience short-term and long-term effects. These can include:
problems with brain development
taking risks, like running away from home, using drugs and alcohol or breaking the law
getting into dangerous relationships
difficulty with relationships later in life, including with their own children
a higher chance of having mental health problems, including depression.”

I also quote from the work of David Howe, the author of Childhood Abuse and Neglect and a guest on my podcast in a couple of weeks.

Any questions please do let me know,

Warm regards,

Piers

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Piers is an author and a men's transformational coach and therapist who works mainly with trauma, boarding school issues, addictions and relationship problems.

He also runs online men's groups for ex-boarders, retreats and a podcast called An Evolving Man.

He is also the author of How to Survive and Thrive in Challenging Times. To purchase Piers first book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/How-Survive-Thrive-Challenging-Times/dp/B088T5L251/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=piers+cross&qid=1609869608&sr=8-1

For more videos please visit: http://youtube.com/pierscross

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For Piers' website and a free training How To Find Peace In Everyday Life: https://www.piers-cross.com/community

Many blessings,

Piers Cross

http://piers-cross.com/