The hidden children (behind the hidden epidemic)

Objective: A lot has been written about the hidden epidemic, the consequences of adversive child experiences (aces) later in life, physical and emotional. Not enough can be spoken about the consequences of a the often... [ view full abstract ]

Objective: A lot has been written about the hidden epidemic, the consequences of adversive child experiences (aces) later in life, physical and emotional. Not enough can be spoken about the consequences of a the often unnoticed early start of ace’s, before the age of six. The high chance of physical or emotional violence against the youngest children, with hidden effects in their early development, leave these children frequently unseen and without adequate help. The intergenerational cycle of violence can only be stopped by starting to see the early beginnings of the aces. To see that an easy baby that sleeps a lot, can be a troubled baby.

Method: a new developing clinical treatment protocol (IMH-GIA) specially focused on the youngest children in violent or neglecting families, will raise awareness about the impact of violence and neglect, and helps the professional to educate and treat the youngest children and their families to prevent the impact growing into deficit later in life. Even when these young children do not show problems in their development (yet). 

Results & Conclusion: the protocol helps the professional be more aware of the impact of violence on the youngest children. More young children are refered to  infant mental healthcare in the clinical center Fier, even when they are not the indicated patients. Help can be offered early, to prevent higher costs later in life.  This calls for changes in policy, in the way we indicate problems and how we finance this care. To be able to offer the right care, differentiation between the youngest children who need specific intervention and those who will be helped by a watchful waiting period and specific education is a necessary next step that needs more research.