Effects of Domestic Violence on Children
On average, more than three women a day are murdered by their husbands or boyfriends in the United States and women experience two million injuries from intimate partner violence each year. Many of these women are mothers who often go to great and courageous lengths to protect their children from abusive partners. Research has shown that the non abusing parent is often the strongest protective factor in the lives of children who are exposed to domestic violence.
Children are often the silent victims and witnessing domestic violence can affect every aspect of a child’s life.
- Children of mothers who experience prenatal physical violence are at an increased risk of exhibiting aggressive, anxious, depressed or hyperactive behavior.
- Children who witness violence may exhibit a range of problematic behaviors including depression, anxiety and aggression toward peers.
- Children who witness violence are at a greater risk of self destructive behaviors such as substance abuse, sexual promiscuity, running away, self injury and gang affiliation.
- Adolescents who grow up in violent homes are at risk for recreating the abuse they have seen.
- Adolescent females that grow up in violent homes are at risk of becoming victims of teen dating violence and domestic violence as an adult.
- Without intervention, children’s feelings of anxiety, guilt, grief and embarrassment may begin to take command of their lives.
To get help, call our 24-Hour Hotline at 631-666-8833 or our Counseling program at 631-666-7181.