Childhood Maltreatment & Intergenerational Abuse

Abstract

Research has long demonstrated that individuals who have experienced maltreatment as children are at risk for a range of deleterious mental health outcomes and poor interpersonal relationships (Afifi et al., 2011). One concern is that being maltreated may be a risk factor for becoming a parent who also engages in intergenerational violence. However, it is also known that many individuals are resilient and are able to overcome these adversities. The current research paper focuses on how experiencing maltreatment as a child increases the risks for intergenerational abuse. I will also present findings related to how a history of childhood maltreatment affects one’s ability to create healthy relationships. The study will also address the different factors associated with risk and resilience of childhood maltreatment. The study will also aim to critically review different intervention models and successful prevention programs of childhood maltreatment for those at greater risk for intergenerational violence.