How can educational attainment be affected by abuse?

The choice regarding the negative impact on brain development is correct because abuse can lead to significant adverse changes in a child's brain structure and function. Experiences of abuse, whether physical, emotional, or psychological, can disrupt normal brain development, hindering cognitive processes such as memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities. This disruption can manifest in difficulties in learning and academic performance, as children who have experienced abuse may struggle with emotional regulation, social relationships, and overall mental health.

Research indicates that chronic exposure to stress and trauma associated with abuse affects the brain's wiring and chemistry, which can result in various learning difficulties and academic challenges. Consequently, the long-term effects of abuse can severely impair educational attainment, leading to lower achievement in school and reduced opportunities for personal and professional development in the future.

In contrast, the other options suggest positive outcomes, such as increased social interaction, enhanced cognitive development, or boosted motivation and focus in learning, which do not align with the realities of how abuse negatively impacts a child's educational journey.