The relationship between child maltreatment and axis I mental disorders: A summary of the published literature from 2006 to 2010

Abstract

Research has indicated that child maltreatment is as-sociated with an increased likelihood of mental dis-orders and suicidal ideation and attempts that con-tinues into adulthood. The purpose of this paper is to provide a synopsis of the recent published research from 2006 to 2010 on the association between child maltreatment and Axis I mental disorders and suici-dal ideation and attempts. The databases MEDLINE and PsycINFO were searched for relevant and high quality citations up to October 2010. The results in-dicated that all types of child maltreatment examined are linked to reduced mental health. A general noted trend in the literature is that earlier age of onset of child maltreatment is associated with poorer mental health outcomes. Sex differences do exist with some disorders being more likely among males (e.g., anti-social behaviour) and other more likely among fema-les (e.g., depression, PTSD, substance use disorders) following child maltreatment.