Many children are abandoned by their parents or other caregivers, and it can leave a lasting emotional scar. This can cause a child to have poor self-esteem and problems with relationships, which may lead to long-term mental health issues. It can also lead to substance abuse, eating disorders and unhealthy coping mechanisms such as self-mutilation or suicide.

Abandonment is a complex issue with no one-size-fits-all solution, and it can happen to people of all backgrounds. However, there are some common factors that contribute to it. These factors include poverty, a lack of resources, and relationship problems. Abandonment can be physical or emotional, and it can happen at any stage of a child’s life.

A lack of money and resources is often the primary reason for abandoning a child, particularly in countries where there are high levels of poverty. Those living in poverty can’t afford basic necessities, including food and childcare, so it can be easier to just give up. In some cases, a parent will simply decide they can’t care for their child and will turn them over to social services or their family members.

Another common reason for abandoning a child is infidelity or other relationship problems. This can often lead to a separation or divorce, and it can be easy for one party to decide they want nothing to do with the other or their children. If there are issues with money or support, it can be even more difficult to maintain a relationship with the other parent.

The idea of being a parent can be extremely overwhelming, especially for young adults who may not have the emotional maturity to deal with it. Unplanned pregnancies can be a major factor in abandoning a child, as can rape. Women and girls who feel they can’t raise a child may choose to have an abortion or put the baby up for adoption, rather than risk leaving them on the street or allowing their parents to take them away.

In some cases, children are deliberately abandoned. This is most common in China, where strict population control policies and a strong clan culture lead to gender-selective desertions. Historically, girls have been more likely to be abandoned than boys, but in recent decades, there has been a trend toward abandoning more boys (see Fig. 3).

Sometimes, a child is simply neglected or abused by their parents. They may be ignored or not taken to the doctor when they’re sick, and this can have serious consequences for their health. Regardless of the reason for neglect or abuse, it’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible. BetterHelp offers online therapy that can help a child recover from the trauma of being abandoned by their parents. They can learn how to cope with the situation and develop healthy coping skills. This will ultimately help them lead a happier, more productive life.