What are the effects of domestic violence on children?
It’s estimated that between 1 and 7 kids are impacted for each adult who experiences domestic violence. Furthermore, the National Coalition to End Domestic Violence reports 1 in 15 children are exposed to intimate partner violence each year.
So what happens when children witness domestic abuse?
Research has found that kids who observe domestic violence are:
- 50% more likely to abuse drugs and/or alcohol,
- 74% more likely to commit a violent crime,
- 6 times more likely to commit suicide, and
- Most likely to continue the generational cycle of abuse by becoming either a victim or a perpetrator of domestic violence themselves later in life.
“The single best predictor of children becoming either perpetrators or victims of domestic violence later in life is whether or not they grow up in a home where there is domestic violence.”
– Unicef, Behind Closed Doors: The Impact of Domestic Violence on Children
Brain development in children is negatively affected when children see domestic abuse happen. Consequently, these traumatic experiences lead to developmental delay.
Eyewitnessing abuse of a parent causes adverse physical, behavioral, and emotional responses. It also leads to adverse effects on children’s mental health, resulting in unhealthy patterns and limiting beliefs that continue into adulthood.
If you think the kids don’t know what’s going on, think again.
90% of children who live in homes with domestic violence going on know what is happening.
Although, it’s not just children living in the home who are adversly affected. Newborns and infants have increased levels of trauma when exposed to violent relationships while still in the womb.
A University of Michigan in 2014 found abuse of the mother by an intimate partner during pregnancy increases her stress hormone levels of cortisol, which then increases the cortisol levels in the unborn child.
Additionally, the study links domestic abuse toward pregnant women and symptoms of emotional and behavioral trauma in newborn babies. These symptoms include nightmares, startling easily, disliking loud noises and bright lights, and avoiding physical contact.
What Can I Do to Support My Child?
- Assure your child that the abuse is not their fault
- Give positive attention – hugs, cuddles, and encouragement
- Listen without judgment or trying to “fix” anything
- Validate their feelings – “It’s ok to feel sad about this.”
- Create feelings of safety within their environment, with familiar and predictable routines.
- Create safe ways for them to let their anger and frustration out, like punching a pillow or hitting a speed bag.
- Seek professional support for coping strategies.
Chesterfield Safety and Security
