I have worked as a psychotherapist with many ‘survivors and thrivers’ of several types of abuse. They tend to see themselves as in some way tainted, soiled and ‘less’ than they could or should be, and somehow of less value than other (non-abused) people. Research shows that abuse and trauma effect the developing brain and result in impaired perceptions, unhelpful thinking patterns, and behaviours that can swing between being too needy for love and reassurance through to a cold rejection of love and attachment – both of which are attempts by the wounded child, who still hides deep inside the psyche, to avoid further pain, confusion, betrayal or exploitation. [Read more…] about ABUSED CHILDREN