What is domestic abuse:
Domestic violence and abuse is defined as “any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening behaviour, violence, or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members, regardless of gender or sexuality,” according to the UK government. As per the statistics, men are the primary perpetrators of domestic abuse, and women are the primary victims.
How are children involved?
When people think of domestic violence, they frequently consider how badly the adult victim is hurt – but they may not realise that children who see their mothers, fathers, or other family members being abused are also impacted and this can have an adverse effect on their physical as well as mental health.
How are children affected?
Children who witness domestic violence suffer major repercussions. It has a terrible effect on them. It may have negative effects on how they feel, think, and act. As a result of witnessing domestic abuse, they may endure both short-term and long-term cognitive, behavioural, and emotional impairments.
What are the short-term effects?
Children may respond to witnessing abuse in different ways, such as;
– becoming anxious or depressed
– eating/sleeping disturbances
– having nightmares or flashbacks
– having temper tantrums & problems with school
– expressing complaints of physical symptoms such as headaches/stomach aches
– older children may start skipping school, use alcohol or drugs, start overdosing or cutting themselves, or develop eating disorders
What are the long term consequences?
Witnessing domestic abuse can affect the children for the rest of their lives. Below we have discussed, some of the long-term consequences that children who witness domestic abuse encounter.
Repetition of Abusive Patterns:
Children who have witnessed abuse and violence are more prone to engage in abusive relationships as adults. Children frequently imitate their parents’ behaviour. Boys pick up violent behaviour toward women from their fathers.
Adults who have witnessed violence and abuse during their childhood are more prone to engage in abusive relationships. Children frequently imitate their parents’ behaviour. Boys pick up violent behaviour toward women from their fathers. Girls learn from their mothers that dealing with violence are something you just have to accept.
Health Issues:
Those who experience domestic abuse in their childhood are at higher risk of health problems as adults (example: heart disease, diabetes, obesity etc.).
Depression:
Children who witness domestic abuse have a very high chance of experiencing depression, sorrow, attention problems, and other depressive symptoms in their adulthood.
How to protect children?
Below we have discussed few ways to protect children from domestic abuse.
- Help them to feel safe
- Discuss with them about their fears
- Educate them about healthy relationships
- Get them professional help if needed
- Help them to find a reliable support system
Helpline:
If you’re concerned about a child, you can call on 0808 800 5000 or you can contact via email help@nspcc.org.uk
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