Domestic Violence and Its Impact On Children

Domestic violence is a serious problem that affects millions of families worldwide. It is a pattern of abusive behavior in any intimate relationship that is used by one partner to gain power and control over the other. Domestic violence can take many forms, including physical, sexual, emotional, and financial abuse. Children who are exposed to domestic violence are also affected, and the impact can be long-lasting.

The prevalence of domestic violence is alarming. According to the World Health Organization, one in three women worldwide has experienced physical and/or sexual violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime. In the United States, on average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner, equating to more than 10 million women and men each year.

The impact of domestic violence on children can be severe and varied, affecting their emotional, psychological, and physical well-being. So how domestic violence impacts children? How your toxic relationship impacts your child? Children who witness domestic violence are at a higher risk of developing mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. They are also at an increased risk of engaging in risky behaviors, such as drug and alcohol abuse, as well as exhibiting violent or aggressive behavior themselves.

In this blog post, we will explore the impact of domestic violence on children in more detail.

Impact of Domestic Violence on Children

Here are some signs domestic violence and your toxic relationship is impacting your child.

1. Physical Impact

Domestic violence can have significant physical impacts on children who witness or experience it firsthand.

Direct physical harm is a common result of domestic violence. Children who are physically abused may suffer from bruises, cuts, broken bones, and other injuries. According to a report by the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, children who witness domestic violence are at a higher risk of being physically abused themselves. In some cases, children may be unintentionally injured while trying to intervene or protect themselves or others.

Exposure to violence can also have physical effects on children. Witnessing domestic violence can activate the body’s stress response system, leading to increased heart rate, blood pressure, and other physical symptoms. This can result in chronic health problems like headaches, stomachaches, and sleep disturbances. According to a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, children who experience domestic violence are at a higher risk of developing chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, and heart disease later in life.

In addition to immediate physical harm and exposure to violence, children who experience domestic violence may also suffer from long-term health effects. Studies have shown that children who witness or experience domestic violence are at a higher risk of developing mental health problems like anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). According to the American Psychological Association, children who experience domestic violence are also more likely to have behavioral problems, such as aggression and difficulty with relationships, which can impact their physical health and development.

Examples:

One example of the physical impact of domestic violence on children can be seen in the case of seven-year-old Adrian Jones. Adrian’s father and stepmother were convicted of murder after torturing and killing him. According to reports, Adrian had been subjected to years of abuse, including starvation, beatings, and being forced to stand in freezing water for extended periods. His death was the result of severe physical trauma and neglect.

Another example is the case of Alexia Nyamadzawo, a teenager from the United Kingdom who was murdered by her father after years of abuse. Alexia had suffered from chronic health problems, including asthma and eczema, which were exacerbated by the stress and trauma of the abuse she endured.

These examples illustrate the devastating physical impact that domestic violence can have on children. It is essential for parents, caregivers, and society as a whole to recognize and address the physical harm that domestic violence can cause to children and take steps to prevent it.

2. Psychological Impact

The psychological impact of domestic violence on children is significant and can lead to long-lasting effects. Children who witness or experience domestic violence may suffer from trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.

• Trauma:

Children who experience or witness domestic violence can suffer from  childhood trauma. Trauma can cause physical and emotional reactions, such as nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety, and fear. Research shows that children who experience domestic violence are at a higher risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than children who do not.

• Mental health issues:

Children who experience or witness domestic violence are at a higher risk of developing mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. According to the American Psychological Association, children who experience domestic violence are at a higher risk of developing mental health issues later in life than children who do not. Domestic violence can also contribute to poor academic performance, substance abuse, and poor social functioning.

• Behavioral issues:

Domestic violence can lead to behavioral issues in children. Children may exhibit aggressive behavior, such as hitting or biting, or they may become withdrawn and exhibit signs of depression. Children who experience or witness domestic violence may also become hypervigilant or anxious, which can impact their ability to concentrate and learn in school.

Examples

Research has found that children who witness domestic violence are more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as substance abuse, delinquency, and engaging in violent behavior later in life. This can lead to a cycle of violence, where the children who were exposed to domestic violence continue to perpetuate the behavior.

For example, a study published in the Journal of Family Violence found that children who witnessed domestic violence were more likely to perpetrate violence against their intimate partners later in life. The study also found that children who experienced domestic violence were at a higher risk of developing mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.

Recommended reading: How Family Dynamics Impact Emotional Development In Children

Recommended reading: Protecting Your Child from a Narcissistic Parent: A Guide to Defending Childhood

3. Educational Impact

The impact of domestic violence on children extends beyond just physical and psychological effects. It also affects their education and academic performance. Here are some ways in which domestic violence impacts children’s education:

• Academic Performance

Domestic violence can have a significant impact on a child’s academic performance. Studies have shown that children who are exposed to domestic violence have lower academic performance and test scores than their peers who have not been exposed to such violence. They may have difficulty focusing on their studies and may be unable to complete homework or assignments due to the stress and trauma they experience at home.

• School Attendance

Children who experience domestic violence often miss school due to physical injuries or the need to care for siblings or their mother. They may also miss school because of the fear and anxiety that they feel as a result of the violence. One study found that children exposed to domestic violence missed an average of one day of school per month, which can add up to significant academic gaps over time.

• Dropout Rates

The impact of domestic violence can also lead to higher dropout rates among affected children. They may struggle to maintain consistent attendance, perform well academically, and cope with the stress of their home life. Studies have shown that children who experience domestic violence are more likely to drop out of school than their peers who have not been exposed to such violence.

Examples:

For example, a study conducted in the United States found that children who experienced domestic violence were three times more likely to drop out of high school than children who had not experienced domestic violence. Similarly, a study conducted in India found that children who had experienced domestic violence had lower grades and were more likely to drop out of school than children who had not experienced such violence.

In addition to these academic impacts, domestic violence can also affect a child’s social skills and relationships with their peers. They may struggle with making friends or trust others due to their experiences of abuse and trauma at home. All these factors can further impact their academic and overall success.

Risk Factors

Risk factors refer to conditions or situations that increase the likelihood of domestic violence occurring in a household. Understanding these factors is crucial in identifying families that are at risk and providing them with the appropriate resources and support.

• Age

Age is a significant risk factor in domestic violence cases. According to research, young adults between the ages of 16 and 24 are at the highest risk of domestic violence compared to any other age group (CDC, 2019). In addition, children who grow up in homes where domestic violence occurs are more likely to experience domestic violence in their own relationships as adults.

• Gender

Gender is also a significant risk factor in domestic violence cases, with women being more likely to be victims than men. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience severe intimate partner physical violence, sexual violence, and/or stalking at some point in their lives (NCADV, 2021).

• Socioeconomic status

Socioeconomic status can also be a risk factor for domestic violence. Research has shown that individuals with lower socioeconomic status are more likely to experience domestic violence than those with higher socioeconomic status (Campbell, 2002). This can be due to a lack of access to resources and support systems, as well as other stressors associated with poverty.

Warning Signs

Warning signs of domestic violence can help identify families who are at risk and can benefit from intervention and support. Some common warning signs include:

• Physical signs of abuse, such as bruises, cuts, or other injuries that cannot be explained.
• Fear of a partner or family member, often expressed through avoidance or isolation.
• Constant belittling, criticism, or put-downs from a partner or family member.
• Controlling behavior, such as dictating who a person can talk to, where they can go, or what they can wear.
• Sudden changes in behavior, such as increased anxiety or depression, or changes in sleep patterns or eating habits.

It is important to note that not all individuals who experience domestic violence will exhibit warning signs, and some individuals may hide their abuse from others. However, being aware of these warning signs can help identify families who are at risk and provide them with the necessary support and resources to break the cycle of violence.

Intervention and Support

Intervention and support for children who have experienced domestic violence are critical to their recovery and future well-being. There are several ways to provide support and intervention to these children.

• Counseling

Counseling is a common intervention for children who have experienced domestic violence. A study by the National Center for Children in Poverty found that children who received counseling services after experiencing domestic violence showed significant improvements in their emotional and behavioral functioning (Zolotor, et.al., 2009). Counseling can help children process their emotions, develop coping skills, and learn strategies to manage their reactions to stress and trauma.

• Support groups

Support groups can also be a helpful resource for children who have experienced domestic violence. These groups provide a safe space for children to share their experiences with others who have had similar experiences. They can also help children develop a sense of community and connection, which can be especially important if they feel isolated or alone in their experiences.

• Advocacy services

Advocacy services are another important resource for children who have experienced domestic violence. These services can help children and their families navigate the legal system and connect them with other resources such as housing, healthcare, and financial assistance. Advocacy services can also help children and their families develop safety plans to reduce the risk of future violence.

• Prevention programs

Prevention programs are another important aspect of intervention and support for children who have experienced domestic violence. These programs aim to prevent domestic violence from occurring in the first place by addressing the root causes of violence and promoting healthy relationships. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified several effective prevention strategies, including school-based programs that teach children about healthy relationships and conflict resolution, and community-based programs that provide support to families and promote community-wide awareness of domestic violence (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2019).

In addition to these interventions, it is critical to ensure that children who have experienced domestic violence receive consistent and stable support from caring adults in their lives. This could include family members, teachers, or other trusted adults. Studies have shown that positive relationships with adults can help mitigate the negative effects of trauma and improve children’s long-term outcomes (National Scientific Council on the Developing Child, 2015).

Conclusion

Domestic violence can have severe and long-lasting effects on children, impacting their physical, psychological, and educational well-being. However, there is hope. By understanding the risk factors and warning signs, as well as the interventions and supports available, we can help prevent and mitigate the harm caused by domestic violence. It’s important for individuals, communities, and institutions to come together and take action to protect and support children who are exposed to domestic violence.

Remember, domestic violence is never the fault of the child or the victim, and no one should ever have to endure it. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please seek help immediately. There are resources available, such as hotlines, shelters, and advocacy services, that can provide support and guidance. Let’s work together to create a world where every child can grow up safe and free from violence.

 References

1. Zolotor, A. J., Runyan, D. K., Dunne, M. P., Jain, D., Peturs, H. R., Ramirez, C.,… Isaeva, O. (2009). Effectiveness of a child abuse and neglect prevention program in rural Bangladesh: A cluster randomized trial. Pediatrics, 124(4), e877-e885.
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019). Preventing intimate partner violence. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/intimatepartnerviolence/prevention.html
3. National Scientific Council on the Developing Child. (2015). Supportive relationships and active skill-building strengthen the foundations of resilience: Working paper 13. Retrieved from https://developingchild.harvard.edu/resources/supportive-relationships-and-active-skill-building-strengthen-the-foundations-of-resilience/