Abuse and Brain Changes

Severe abuse and neglect in childhood, can sadly produce changes in the development of the brain. It is unlikely that these changes can be reversed. Nurturing a child is not an innate skill. But every time a mother, or primary caregiver, looks into the eyes of her infant, neurological connections are taking place. Brain development taking place in infancy through toddler hood is rapid and intense. When I was a young mother, I never fully realized the important connections that were being made. I frequently see parents who prop their babies bottle so that they may do other things. I am a multi-tasker, but this is precious time that makes a difference in the growth of little brains.

In 2000 McLean Hospital researchers identified four types of brain abnormalities linked to child abuse and neglect (http://www.mclean.harvard.edu/). "These changes are permanent," says Teicher. "This is not something people can just get over and get on with their lives." Another study by Harvard University concluded that the corpus callosum in abused and neglected children is smaller than normal in abused children. With a minimized ability for the two sides of the brain to communicate, shifts in mood and personality could be likely.

I went to a conference with Dr. Bruce Perry (visit his website if you get a chance: http://www.childtrauma.com/) and was enlightened in the ways that constant fear can bring about physiological and neurological changes. Many, if not most, can not be changed. A person does have the capability of learning how to manage their symptoms. The other day, I was reaching to get the salt from the kitchen table when my hand passed by my adopted son's face. He just about hit the floor. Even though he has been free from abuse for almost four years, there are automatic responses that he struggles to control to this day. There have been many corrective experiences to shape new responses, but it takes time. However, my son and our family have had the benefit of therapy to understand the resulting effects of abuse. I do not believe that many victims of abuse and neglect receive proper treatment. When that does not occur, individuals may look at self-medicating, engage in violent behavior, suffer from depression or entertain suicidal thoughts. If the time between the abuse/neglect and treatment is minumal, than the chances for brain recovery is greater. When looking at the life course perspective, it is important to recognize that there are neurologial causes for some behaviors.