What emotional response might a child exhibit if experiencing abuse?

A child experiencing abuse may exhibit feelings of worthlessness and depression due to the negative impact that such trauma has on their emotional well-being. Abuse can lead to a profound sense of shame and helplessness, which can manifest in low self-esteem and pervasive sadness. This emotional state often makes it difficult for a child to feel joy or engage positively with their surroundings, resulting in withdrawal from activities and social interactions.

This choice accurately reflects the common psychological effects of abuse, contrasting with the other options that depict more positive emotional states or behaviors. For instance, daily excitement and joy, increased social interactions, and consistent focus on academics are generally indicative of a healthy, supportive environment, which is not typically experienced by a child subjected to abuse. Therefore, the emotional response of worthlessness and depression is a significant indicator of the distress a child may face in such circumstances.