Childhood Maltreatment and Violent Behaviour: A Systematic Review

Authors : Md Bashir Uddin Khan, Yanwen Tang

Pages : 57-78

Doi:10.26650/JPLC2024-1360724

View : 50 | Download : 32

Publication Date : 2024-07-08

Article Type : Review Paper

Abstract :A complex interlink between childhood maltreatment and later life delinquency is evident in different studies. This systematic review examines the intricate relationship between childhood maltreatment and the subsequent engagement of individuals in violent exposures. A comprehensive search of the Web of Science (WoS) core collection synthesises several empirical studies published over the last 18 years. Through a meticulous screening process and stringent inclusion criteria, 27 studies were finally selected for analysis using the PRISMA guidelines. The synthesised findings highlight the nuanced interplay between various forms of childhood maltreatment and other confounding factors that predict violence. The USA and China were the most pragmatic in studying this issue. Different statistical techniques, e.g., correlation, regression, and structural equation modelling, were used in these studies. It was found that different forms of maltreatment directly affect violent behaviours. Other factors like psychopathy, drug abuse, conduct disorder, impulsivity, narcissistic vulnerability, and other psychosocial factors often confound it or act as mediators. Gender differences were also examined in some studies. Females were found to be more prone to violent exposure as the outcome of their maltreatment experience in some studies. Findings reveal that neighbourhood factors (neighbourhood disorganisation and social capital) are less represented here.
Keywords : Childhood, maltreatment, violent, impact, theory

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