In this review, a developmental traumatology model of child maltreatment and the risk for theintergenerational cycle of abuse and neglect using a mental health or posttraumatic stress modelwas described. Published data were reviewed that support the hypothesis that thepsychobiological sequelae of child maltreatment may be regarded as an environmentallyinduced complex developmental disorder. Data to support this view, including thedescriptions of both psychobiological and brain maturation studies in maltreatment research,emphasizing the similarities and differences between children, adolescents, and adults, werereviewed. Many suggestions for important future psychobiological and brain maturation researchinvestigations as well as public policy ideas were offered.