What can be the aftermath of neglect on a child's mental health?

The aftermath of neglect on a child's mental health can manifest prominently as increased susceptibility to anxiety and depression. Children who experience neglect may develop feelings of insecurity, low self-esteem, and an inability to trust others due to their unmet emotional and physical needs. This can lead to chronic stress, which is highly linked to anxiety disorders and depressive symptoms.

Neglect can interfere with a child's ability to form healthy relationships and cope with stressors effectively, often resulting in prolonged emotional distress. Such adverse experiences can hinder their cognitive development and emotional regulation, exacerbating feelings of isolation and hopelessness, which are hallmarks of anxiety and depression.

In contrast, options that suggest significant improvement in emotional resilience or enhanced coping mechanisms do not align with the typical outcomes of neglect, as neglected children often struggle rather than thrive in low-support environments. Additionally, stating that there is no effect on mental health fails to recognize the overwhelming evidence connecting neglect to profound and detrimental mental health outcomes in childhood.