Domestic violence not only has major implications for adults but also negative repercussions for children. These effects can include, physical and mental trauma. Let’s take a deeper dive into how domestic violence can immediately affect children resulting in long-term psychological effects.
Understanding Domestic Violence
If we had to define what domestic violence is, it is when there is violence that occurs in the same household between two or more people within a family. This usually involves both parents or adult guardians. Domestic violence effects on children can be quite complex, coming in many different shapes and sizes. These can include physical, emotional, psychological, and even financial.
According to an Indianapolis Domestic Violence Attorney, domestic violence can also be defined as the following:
- The individuals involved are married or were previously married.
- The couple lives or has lived together in a genuine domestic partnership.
- They are or have been related to each other.
- They have or have had an intimate relationship that may not necessarily be sexual.
- They are in a de facto relationship.
When it comes to domestic violence, the exposure and its effects are a rising concern as they cause lasting effects on children and how they develop into adults.
Immediate Effects of Domestic Violence on Children
The U.S. Department of Justice states that around 1 in 10 American children witness one family member assault another family member, with more than 25% being exposed to family violence in their lifetime. As mentioned earlier there are many immediate effects of domestic violence on children. These include:
- Emotional responses: Many emotions and feelings can be felt when a child is exposed to domestic violence. These can be feelings of fear, anxiety, and confusion.
- Behavioral responses: Other responses that result in witnessing family violence can be behavioral ones. These can result in actions of aggression, withdrawal, and regression.
- Academic performance: Academics are also affected when a child is experiencing domestic violence at home. Academic performance can be impacted by having difficulty concentrating in class and regularly attending school.
Domestic violence can affect children in both emotional and behavioral ways, which may influence negative developmental growth later on down the road.
Long-Term Psychological Effects
Some long-term effects can also be placed on a child when they are exposed to domestic violence at home. Increased risk of mental health disorders, like depression, anxiety, and PTSD, are among the many of them that are of high concern.
In addition, impacts on a child’s self-esteem and identity may also be attacked and harmed. By witnessing at-home domestic violence at such a young age, children usually don’t know how to express their feelings which further causes them to internalize negative emotions and thoughts. These can result in worthlessness and feeling like they are causing the mess around them.
Experiencing domestic violence can also result in maladaptive coping mechanisms like substance abuse, self-harm, and aggression as they try to seek ways to escape from their home situation. Without appropriate support and intervention, these long-term effects can impact how they interact and form lasting relationships with others.
The Role of Support Systems
Providing a strong support system such as family, friends, and community resources, will give children affected by domestic violence a chance to experience a happier childhood and positive developmental growth. Teachers and schools can provide a haven for their students and their families. Intervening and introducing counseling and therapy can help children and their families when faced with unlikely situations like domestic violence. If necessary, legal intervention may be appropriate. Understanding the legal rights and protections for children in domestic violence situations can highlight both the progress and the need for further reform in our society.
Breaking the Cycle of Domestic Violence for Our Children
In conclusion, recognizing and addressing the long-term effects of domestic violence on children is vital for breaking the cycle of violence and fostering healing. By understanding these lasting impacts and promoting awareness, we can take meaningful steps to protect future generations and prevent the recurrence of domestic violence in our children’s lives.
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