Abstract
ABSTRACT Victims of child abuse can experience severe developmental consequences in multiple areas of functioning. Providing a structured environment may be part of an effective treatment program for these children. The present study evaluates the social, behavioral and cognitive changes in children residing in the highly structured treatment program at Childhelp USA. Subjects were 159 boys and 87 girls aged 4 to 12 who were referred to Childhelp after being identified as victims of child abuse and/or neglect. Changes in problem behaviors, social functioning and WISC-R scores were measured at intake and again at discharge from Childhelp. Aggression, covert conduct problems, attention deficit hyperactive disorder symptoms, self-destructive behavior, withdrawn and anxious behavior, toileting problems, and sexual acting out were significantly reduced during the treatment period. WISC-R scores, oppositional and defiant behaviors, and peer relationship problems remained unchanged over the course of treatment. These changes are discussed and future research suggested.
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