More than a third of South African children under the age of 17 suffer emotional abuse and neglect, resulting in invisible scars that put them at greater risk of mental illness and limit their chances of a fulfilling and functional adult life.

Psychological abuse and neglect of children's emotional needs for affection and support is committed most often by those closest to them and responsible for their nurturing and development, such as parents, caregivers, and relatives, and it cuts across all levels of society and income.

More from Dr. Eugene Allers, spokesperson for the South African Society of Psychiatrists.