Psychopathological and neuropsychological sequelae in children victimised by intimate partner violence: a clinical case series.
N Pérez-Cámara, N Hidalgo-Ruzzante, A I De Luis-Ruiz et al.
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Case in brief
A clinical case series assessed four children aged 5–9 with documented exposure to intimate partner violence, including witnessing violence and, in some cases, direct abuse. All had internalising symptoms, emotional dysregulation and trauma-related distress. Neuropsychological testing found selective difficulties, particularly in executive functioning, attention and processing speed, while general intelligence was preserved. More severe exposure and polyvictimization were associated with more complex symptom patterns. The report highlights emotional and cognitive sequelae in middle childhood and concludes that early, multidimensional assessment can identify both psychopathological and neuropsychological needs.
What made this case unusual
The children showed selective cognitive impairments despite preserved general intelligence, alongside substantial emotional and trauma-related symptoms.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Assessment after childhood exposure to intimate partner violence should consider attention and executive functioning as well as emotional symptoms; preserved general intelligence does not exclude selective cognitive difficulties.