Effect of domestic and family violence on children
Children are affected by domestic and family violence even if they have not seen the abuse or violence. Children react in a variety of ways; they may show signs that they are affected by the domestic and family violence, or they may keep these signs and their feelings inside. It is important to listen to children and watch for warning signs of effects on a child's physical or emotional health. Some of the ways children may react include:
- copying the abusive or violent behaviour
- trying to intervene to stop the abuse. This is how some children become injured during domestic and family violence
- being stunned into a terrified silence by what they see
- blaming themselves
- being frustrated, angry and depressed
- wetting the bed
- being nervous and withdrawn
- displaying psychosomatic illnesses including unexplained headaches, asthma and stuttering
- running away from home
- attempting suicide
- abusing alcohol and substances.
Research shows that children who are involved in domestic and family violence are affected in many ways. They don’t need to see it to be affected.
Violent behaviour is also teaching children inappropriate messages about abuse and violence and the way to treat people in their family, those they care for, or people with a disability, illness or impairment. Children may learn that:
- the only way to cope with stress and pressure is through the use of abuse and violence
- using violence is an appropriate way to solve problems
- it is okay to use violence to get what you want.
Last updated: 24 June 2008.