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Domestic Violence and Children

1. Why is it important to consider the age when a child is exposed to domestic
   violence?
   It is important to consider the age when a child is exposed to domestic violence the
   effects of domestic violence on children vary depending on, among other factors, the age
   when they witnessed the violence. Even though domestic violence has negative effects on all
   children, older children are generally better at coping with its effects that younger ones.
   Therefore, they may not show direct symptoms, such as screaming and crying that are
   witnessed among younger children (The National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN),
   2010).
2. Identify and describe the effects of witnessing domestic violence on a child of 3,
   10 and 13.
   For a child of 3, the effects of witnessing domestic violence include intense anxieties and
   worries, and eating or sleeping disruptions. For a child of 10, the effects include truancy and
   having difficult peer relationships. As for a 13-year-old, the effects include depression and
   anti-social behavior.
3. Identify and describe at least 3 ways that professionals/helpers can effectively
   respond to child witnesses of domestic violence.
   Some of the ways that professionals can use to effectively respond to child witnesses of
   domestic violence include providing the child with activities that help them develop self-
   esteem and competence, help stabilize the child’s environment and give family members
   information and support to help them better manage children who have witnessed domestic
   violence (NCTSN, 2010).
4. What behaviors might parents expect to see in their children and what strategies
   should parents employ to help manage these behaviors?

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Behaviors that parents may expect to see in their children as a result of being exposed to
domestic violence include violent behaviors, depression and impulsive acts. To manage these
behaviors, parents may use strategies such as establishing rules and routines in order to
introduce a sense of predictability in the child’s life (Child Witness to Violence). They can
also use specific praise to encourage positive behaviors in the children and make them feel
valued.

5. List at least 2 resources (and/or resource agencies) that would be helpful to
   professionals working with child witnesses. Describe the resources and/or
   services provided by the resource agencies.
   The two resources are Child Witness to Violence Project and Children’s Bureau of the US
   Department of Health and Human Services. The Children Witness to Violence Project offers
   training and valuable information on what professionals, parents, caregivers, and neighbors
   can do to help children who witness domestic violence. As for Children’s Bureau, it supports
   research and programs that are aimed at helping children who have been subjected to abuse
   or have witnessed domestic violence.

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References

Child Witness to Violence Project (n.a). Tips for Parents and Caregivers. Department of
Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics at Boston Medical Center
The National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) (2010). Domestic Violence and
Children: Questions and Answers for Domestic Violence Project Advocates.