The emotional consequences of physical child abuse

The author proposes that the emotional impact of physical abuse of young children is predictable and occurs in a relatively orderly sequence. This sequence is described and a diagnostic tool for determining the depth of the impact is offered. The author proposes that this model may be used as a foundation to guide therapists in making effective clinical interventions with children in situations that often present themselves with great urgency and emotional pain. Treatment of the abusing parent, an essential part of the overall treatment plan for the child, is beyond the scope of this paper, which focuses exclusively on issues relating to children.