When parents ignore their children, it can have serious consequences for the child's development and mental health:  Emotional neglect: Children who are ignored may feel unloved and unwanted, which can lead to low self-esteem, depression, and other emotional disorders.  Developmental delay: Children who experience neglect may have developmental delays.  Hyperactivity and aggression: Children who experience neglect may become hyperactive or aggressive.  Substance abuse: Children who experience neglect may be more likely to abuse substances.  Anxiety and cardiovascular problems: Children who experience neglect may be at greater risk for anxiety, depression, and cardiovascular problems later in life.  Affective deficiency: Children who experience neglect may feel discomfort, loneliness, and emptiness.  Manipulation: Parents who use silent treatment or ignore their children may be manipulating them to change or improve.  Learned behavior: Children who experience neglect may learn to use the same tactics on others in the future.