The disclosure of child psychological maltreatment: A systematic review

Abstract

Background

Child psychological maltreatment can be defined as intentional or unintentional harm to a child's psychological well-being and neglect of the child's emotional life and of care and attention to the child. It is the most common form of maltreatment, but it remains difficult to identify, address, and intervene against.

Objective

This study aims to describe the ways in which 6–17-year-old children disclose psychological maltreatment and the factors that either promote or prevent disclosure.

Participants and setting

This review included a total of 27,875 participants, mostly from the USA.

Methods

The literature search was conducted in June 2024 using the databases, CINAHL, Medline, Social Science Premium Collection, PsycINFO, and Science Direct. Studies selected according to the inclusion criteria were analyzed using inductive content analysis.

Findings

An analysis of 17 studies identified that in many cases, reporting of psychological maltreatment was planned and intentional, but that children also disclosed maltreatment unintentionally, for example, through risky behavior. Gender, age, emotional attachment to the perpetrator, and the child's emotional skills all related to the reporting of psychological maltreatment. The likelihood of reporting psychological maltreatment increased if the child self-identified the maltreatment and was supported in receiving help. With the appropriate response and strong social skills, the professional or supporter was able to facilitate the child's reporting of psychological maltreatment.

Conclusions

Children's emotional skills and ability to self-identify the maltreatment, as well as professionals' ability to respond to help-seeking and their social skills should be strengthened to facilitate disclosure of psychological maltreatment.