Childhood neglect and well-being in youth and adulthood: A meta-analysis

Journal title MALTRATTAMENTO E ABUSO ALL’INFANZIA
Author/s Ludovica Di Paola, Lisa De Luca, Enrico Imbimbo, Ersilia Menesini, Annalaura Nocentini
Publishing Year 2025 Issue 2025/2
Language English Pages 22 P. 99-120 File size 160 KB
DOI 10.3280/MAL2025-002005
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English abstract. Given the negative long-term consequences of childhood neglect for well-being, this issue requires attention. This study examined whether the relationship between childhood neglect and well-being in youth and adults varies according to the type of neglect, the country, and the age of the participants. The meta-analysis revealed a negative association between neglect and well-being. Specifically, the effect of neglect on well-being was greater in youth than in adults, whereas the effect was smaller in studies from Asia. Regarding the type of neglect, emotional neglect appeared to have a greater impact on well-being than physical or general childhood neglect. When implementing interventions to mitigate the effects of childhood neglect, it is important to consider age and cultural differences.

Keywords: childhood neglect, childhood maltreatment, well-being, meta-analysis.

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Ludovica Di Paola, Lisa De Luca, Enrico Imbimbo, Ersilia Menesini, Annalaura Nocentini, Childhood neglect and well-being in youth and adulthood: A meta-analysis in "MALTRATTAMENTO E ABUSO ALL’INFANZIA" 2/2025, pp 99-120, DOI: 10.3280/MAL2025-002005