THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND CHILD ABUSE
BY: PAMELA JOY SMITH, J.D.
Researchers have known for years that domestic violence has a direct
correlation to child abuse.
Children who live in an environment of domestic violence face several
risks. In addition to witnessing
trauma, these children risk
becoming a direct target of abuse.
They also face the risk of losing one or both of their parents as a
result of the domestic violence. The children who are exposed to this violence become fearful
and anxious. They are always worried for themselves, the parent who is being
abused and their siblings. They feel
worthless and powerless. Some may often feel rage, embarrassment and
humiliation.
Statistics reveal that children in homes where violence occurs are
physically abused or neglected at a rate of 1500% of the national average. Child abuse occurs in 30-60% where
domestic violence is present.
Unfortunately history has taught us that the behavior will most likely
be repeated in the next generation by the very victims who were abused at the
hands of a parent in domestic violence.
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| Unacceptable! |
The correlation between domestic violence and child abuse share several
similarities. Both forms of abuse
cross all boundaries of economic levels, race, and religious faith. For various
reasons, both domestic violence and child abuse are under-reported. Children who
grow up in this type of environment are expected to keep the family secret.
Children’s behavior can also be affected. The child can experience
physical responses including headaches, stomachaches and losing the ability to
concentrate. They may experience frustration and rage directed at the abuser
for the violence and the mother for being unable to prevent the violence.
What can
we do? Pay attention to the behavior of children you may know. Behavior of
children who are abused in a situation of domestic violence may include acting
out, withdrawal or anxiousness to please. They may exhibit anxiety and poor
attendance in school and a lack of attention span. As adults we can make a difference in a child’s life. If you
become aware of a situation in which a child is not only being abused and
his/her parent is also being victimized by domestic violence, reach out and
help. Call the police and report what you know. Try to give the child emotional
support and encouragement to tell the authorities the truth. Remember we can
make a difference.
