Does Child Maltreatment Obstruct Mental Health of Adolescents?

Abstract

Child maltreatment is a global phenomenon which is considered as one of the most salient psycho-social problems, causing detrimental impact on health and overall development of children and adolescents. Present study intended to examine the consequences of child maltreatment on mental health of students.  The study is based on a 2x2x2 factorial design with two types of schools (Government & Private) x Two age groups (Neo adolescents & Adolescents) x Two levels of maltreatment (High & Low). Child abuse in Schools Checklist (CASC) and Mental health battery were administered on a total of 240 school going adolescents to determine the level of abuse/maltreatment and mental health of students. Data analysis was done using univariate analysis technique. ANOVA results revealed the negative impact of child maltreatment on adolescents’ mental health. More specifically, high maltreated children showed poor mental health status as compared with low/ non maltreated counterparts. However, the effects of type of school and age were found partially significant.  Results of the study indicate the risk of psychological health problems in adolescents caused by child maltreatment in schools. Findings are discussed.