, operating in a legal gray zone that prioritizes profit over performer safety.

Walker, L. E. A. (1979). The battered woman. New York: Harper & Row.

Growing up in an abusive or neglectful maternal environment alters the development of key brain structures responsible for social cognition, specifically the , the prefrontal cortex (PFC) , and the superior temporal gyrus (STG) . 1. Hypervigilance and the Anger Bias

Research has consistently shown that maternal maltreatment is a significant predictor of facial abuse. Mothers who engage in physically abusive behaviors are more likely to target their child's face, which can be a deliberate attempt to intimidate, humiliate, or control the child. Facial abuse can also be a manifestation of a mother's own emotional distress, stress, or mental health issues.

Early identification by pediatricians and dental professionals is the most effective way to break the cycle of maltreatment.

Learn to recognize the TEN-4 FACESp bruising pattern. Ask about family history of maltreatment. Report suspected abuse to child protective services. Document findings meticulously.

WHO (2020). Child Maltreatment. World Health Organization.

: They are more likely to misidentify neutral or fearful expressions as "angry".