Paper
Wednesday, July 21, 2004
The Effect of Violence and Childhood Abuse on Neurobiological Development and Behavior: An Evidence-Based Approach
Susan Rick, DNS, RN, CNS and Dianna Douglas, DNS, RN, CNS. School of Nursing, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| Learning Objective #1: Discuss the effects of violence and childhood abuse on neurobiological development and behavior |
| Learning Objective #2: Select appropriate evidence-based nursing interventions to decrease the negative effects of violence and childhood abuse |
Violence and abuse are endemic thorughout the world community and are a significant threat to society and the health of its individuals especially children. The stress of early and severe violence and abuse produces a range of neurobiological events that have the potential to cause alterations in brain development (Teicher, Andersen, Polcari, Anderson, Navalta, & Kim, 2003)and may result in behavioral dysfunction or psychiatric illness. Using a four step model of evidence-based nursing practice as identified by the University of Minnesota (2001), this paper: (a) identifies both the neurobiologcal and psychological changes assoiated with early childhood violence and abuse, (b) presents a literature review relating the neurobiological effects of violence and abuse to brain development, (c) evaluates the research determining its scientific merit, and (d) describes nursing interventions effective for this population of vulnerable children. Implications for evidence-based nursing practice will focus on strategies that emphasize milieu management, positive coping techniques, self-soothing and calming techniques, strengthening of social relationships, and prevention through specific early intervention programs.
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Sigma Theta Tau International
July 21, 2004