This systematic review and meta-analysis of 88 studies identifies alexithymia (deficits in the ability to recognise one’s own emotions) as a likely mediator between child maltreatment (especially neglect) and later psychological disorder. In future, alexithymia could be a target for therapeutic intervention.

Khan, A. N., & Jaffee, S. R. (2022). Alexithymia in individuals maltreated as children and adolescents: a meta‐analysis. Journal of child psychology and psychiatry.

https://acamh.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jcpp.13616?campaign=wolearlyview