Psychological Effects of Childhood Neglect

The psychological effects of childhood neglect are profound and long-lasting. I’ve written a memoir, Following the Whispers which illustrates the psychological effects of childhood neglect on my life.

My childhood was permeated by abuse and molestation, which led to a host of unhealthy relationships, a dissatisfying career path and ultimately, the loss of custody of my only child, due in part to the psychological effects of childhood neglect. Early years of hurt created feelings of self-hatred so unbearable, I became deaf to my own inner-voice, one of the psychological effects of childhood neglect, causing me to make a series of bad decisions that led to the most devastating consequences.

Here are some psychological effects of childhood neglect: I learned to hide my true self. If I revealed how I really felt, I was laughed at, mocked, or simply not understood. I became convinced that if someone discovered who I really was, they’d ridicule me, humiliate me, or leave. I went from being a precocious, outgoing little girl who reveled in being the center of attention, to one who was afraid. Therapy helped me understand that I was afraid to be pretty, afraid of my sexual feelings, afraid of rejection, and ultimately, afraid to be alone. Like a chameleon, I changed my thoughts, beliefs and feelings according to whom I was with, believing that if I acted in ways I perceived others wanted me to act, I would be loved.  All of these are the psychological effects of childhood neglect.

In 1978, a life-changing event catapulted me onto a better path—one of awakening and awareness of the psychological effects of childhood neglect. Once I was more spiritually fulfilled, I could tackle my pain-filled past and begin to live a life bathed in awareness. Following the Whispers chronicles that journey, showing the psychological effects of childhood neglect in relationship choices and poor decisions, and how I overcame the psychological effects of childhood neglect and finally found love and acceptance.

Want to know more about the psychological effects of childhood neglect? Get your copy of Following the Whispers today!