LONG-TERM CONSEQUENCES OF CHILDHOOD PHYSICAL ABUSE

This article reviews the literature on the long-term consequences of c hildhood physical abuse. Empirical research is discussed within 7 topi c areas: aggressive and violent behavior, nonviolent criminal behavior , substance abuse, self-injurious and suicidal behavior, emotional pro blems, interpersonal problems, and academic and vocational difficultie s. The studies reviewed involve primarily adult populations, although pertinent findings from literature on children and adolescents are bri efly summarized. Some variables that affect the relation between physi cal abuse and long-term consequences are examined. These moderator var iables include maltreatment characteristics, individual factors, famil y factors, and environmental factors. The article ends with suggestion s for future research on long-term consequences and variables that may affect these outcomes.