Research published in 2021 emphasized that child maltreatment—including physical and emotional abuse and neglect—remains a widespread issue, with approximately reported in the U.S. that year alone.
: While neglect is the most prevalent form (76%), physical abuse and emotional ill-treatment also account for significant percentages of cases. facialabuse facial abuse maternal maltreatm 2021
: Exposure to early-life stress can alter gene expression and immune function, leading to chronic health issues and mental health disorders like anxiety and PTSD later in life. facialabuse facial abuse maternal maltreatm 2021