In Brief: The Science of Neglect

Extensive biological and developmental research shows significant neglect can cause more harm to a young child’s development than overt physical abuse, including subsequent cognitive delays, impairments in executive functioning, and disruptions of the body’s stress response. This video explains why significant deprivation is so harmful in the earliest years of life and why effective interventions are likely to pay significant dividends in better long‐term outcomes in learning, health, and parenting of the next generation.

Resource Type: 

  • Video
  • Print

Topic: 

  • Social-emotional development
  • Early Intervention

Types of Diversity: 

  • Children and Families who have Experienced Maltreatment and Trauma

NC Community College Core Course: 

  • Child Guidance