Psychopathological and neuropsychological sequelae in children victimised by intimate partner violence: a clinical case series
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Background: Childhood exposure to intimate partner violence against women (IPVAW) is recognised as a form of maltreatment with lasting emotional, cognitive, and neurobiological consequences. Despite evidence of disruptions in executive functioning, attention, and memory, clinical case-based research remains scarce, particularly during middle childhood. Objective: This study examined psychopathological and neuropsychological sequelae of IPVAW – including witnessing violence and direct psychological, physical, and/or sexual abuse – through a clinical case series. Method: Four children aged 5–9 with documented IPVAW exposure underwent comprehensive clinical and neuropsychological assessment. Results: All children showed significant internalising symptoms, emotional dysregulation, and trauma-related distress. Cognitive profiles revealed selective impairments, especially in executive functioning, attention, and processing speed, while general intelligence was preserved. Greater exposure severity and polyvictimization were associated with more complex symptom patterns. Conclusions: IPVAW exposure is linked to pervasive emotional and cognitive difficulties. Findings underscore the need for early, multidimensional assessments and targeted interventions addressing both psychopathology and neuropsychological consequences. Children exposed to intimate partner violence show consistent emotional suffering, including anxiety, fear responses, and difficulties managing their emotions, even when they do not experience direct abuse.Neuropsychological assessment revealed selective cognitive difficulties, especially in attention, working memory, and executive functions, while overall intelligence remained within the expected range for their age.The severity and combination of different forms of violence were linked to more complex psychological and cognitive difficulties, highlighting the need for early and comprehensive evaluations to guide clinical and legal decisions. Children exposed to intimate partner violence show consistent emotional suffering, including anxiety, fear responses, and difficulties managing their emotions, even when they do not experience direct abuse. Neuropsychological assessment revealed selective cognitive difficulties, especially in attention, working memory, and executive functions, while overall intelligence remained within the expected range for their age. The severity and combination of different forms of violence were linked to more complex psychological and cognitive difficulties, highlighting the need for early and comprehensive evaluations to guide clinical and legal decisions.
Source: Figshare
Language: English
Topic: Child Abuse and Trauma
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7223338747