Interspousal Violence and Maternal Deprivation on a Child's Mental Health: A Case Report

Abstract

This paper presents a case of an emotionally deprived child with some evidence of child neglect resulting from husband – wife violence and subsequent separation of parents. It also further confirms the long recognized fact that the most successful treatment of growth failure and weight loss due to psychosocial deprivation is restoration of a normal social environment. In particular, it highlights the need for a high index of suspicion and awareness on the part of medical personnel with regard to emotional disorders in children.

Key words: Interspousal violence, maternal deprivation, impact on offspring.

Nigerian Medical Practitioner Vol.47(1-2) 2005: 14-16