The Effects on Children
A child’s awarenessMost children are aware of abuse which is happening. Children often do not speak about it, even to their parents, and this can often give mums the impression that they do not know anything about what has happened.
Unfortunately it is very rare that children are unaffected. We provide a specialist assessment for mums and children to look at the range of experiences and effects which children may have. We then develop an individual support plan to help address these issues.
We also provide advice and support on parenting after Domestic Violence. This can often be confusing and difficult and we aim to support parents through this transition.
A range of effectsIt is difficult to summarise the effects that domestic violence has on children as it varies greatly due to age and a whole range of factors. For example, a younger child may start wetting the bed or reaching their developmental milestones at a slower pace while an older child might start truanting at school, self harming or taking drugs.
The Royal College of Psychiatrists issued this list:
- They may become anxious or depressed
- They may have difficulty sleeping
- They have nightmares or flashbacks
- They can be easily startled
- They may complain of physical symptoms such as tummy aches
- They may start to wet their bed
- They may have temper tantrums
- They may behave as though they are much younger than they are
- They may have problems with school
- They may become aggressive or they may internalise their distress and withdraw from other people
- They may have a lowered sense of self-worth
- Older children may begin to play truant or start to use alcohol or drugs
- They may begin to self-harm by taking overdoses or cutting themselves
- They may have an eating disorder
EmotionsChildren may experience a range of emotions including but not limited to guilt, anger, confusion, powerlessness, isolation, fear, hatred, love.