What Is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence is when one partner in an intimate relationship abuses the other.

The abuse can be physical, sexual, emotional or a combination of all three. Violence usually is expressed through different aggressive acts, like beatings and forced sexual activity; severe acts like throwing, shoving and slapping; humiliating and putting down the victim.

Women are most commonly the victims of the domestic violence of their male partners. Moreover, the children of these women often witness the domestic violence. Studies show that 3-4 million children between the ages of 3-17 are at risk of exposure to domestic violence each year.

The Effects of Domestic Violence on Children

Witnessing can mean SEEING actual incidents of physical and/or sexual abuse. It can mean HEARING threats or fighting noises from another room. Children may also OBSERVE the aftermath of physical abuse such as blood, bruises, tears, torn clothing and broken items. Finally, children may be AWARE of the tension in the home such as their mother’s fearfulness when the abuser’s car pulls into the driveway.

Consequences of Children Witnessing Domestic Violence

• Children from abusive families can look fine to the outside world, but inside they are in terrible pain.
• Children who are exposed to battering become fearful and anxious.
• They may blame themselves for the abuse thinking if they had not done or said a particular thing, the abuse would not have occurred.
• Most experts believe that children who are raised in abusive homes learn that violence is an effective way to resolve conflicts and problems!
• They may replicate the violence they witnessed as children in their teen and adult relationships and parenting experiences.
• Boys who witness their mothers’ abuse are more likely to batter their female partners as adults than boys raised in nonviolent homes.
• For girls, adolescence may result in the belief that threats and violence are the norm in relationships.
• Children from violent homes have higher risks of alcohol/drug abuse, post traumatic stress disorder, and juvenile delinquency.

Moreover, these are only some of the possible long-term effects on children who witness domestic violence.

Protect Yourself and Your Child Now!

Remember, once violence begins, it will usually continue and get worse over time! Do not let your child live in constant fear and stress. You do not need to stay in an abusive situation. On Legal Bistro you can find experienced and qualified lawyers who will help you. You can post your case ANONYMOUSLY and ABSOLUTELY FREE!