Estrés postraumático en niños víctimas de maltrato físico, sexual y psicológico.

Abstract

Physical, sexual, and psychological abuse in children is a social and health issue due to its medium- and long-term impact and consequences, which disrupt normal development and future adult life. This study aims to determine the consequences related to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in child victims of physical, sexual, and psychological abuse. A qualitative, descriptive, and non-experimental document review methodology was used, analyzing 42 publications from databases such as Redalyc, BVS, SciELO, Google Scholar, and UCACUE Repository, using the PRISMA method, with a sample of 13 studies. The results indicate a high prevalence of PTSD in abused children; sexual abuse ranges from 20% to 57%, while physical and psychological violence fluctuates between 10% and 16.7%. Psychological and emotional consequences include behavioral changes, aggressive behavior, anxiety disorders, depression, low self-esteem, concentration and learning difficulties, and suicidal ideation. The physical consequences manifest as eating disorders, somatic problems, and sexual dysfunction in adulthood, with a tendency to substance abuse and perpetuation of violence in the future. The primary strategies for addressing these cases include cognitive-behavioral therapy and individual and family psychotherapy. In some exceptional situations, medication is also used alongside psychological treatment to support recovery. When there is not the necessary support, various emotional, physical, and psychological consequences of PTSD arise in abused children, leading to long-lasting effects that may impact their future lives.