Around one in three women and one in four men in the U.S. have experienced sexual violence, physical violence, or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime. So, if you haven't been a victim, there's a good chance you know someone who has.
What makes such startling statistics even worse is that children are all too often eyewitnesses to domestic abuse situations in the home. And the stark reality is that children who view violence in the home are more likely to mimic such behavior later on. It can be a destructive cycle of violence that potentially turns victims into perpetrators.
Whether someone is the alleged victim or the alleged perpetrator, it's vital to hire legal counsel. That's especially the case if you're facing domestic violence charges. You'll want to retain the services of a lawyer to ensure you're treated fairly during the legal process.
Domestic violence in the home can have a negative impact on children over the short term and long term. Here's a look at five findings underscoring just how severe the impact can be.
1. Children Who Witness Violence More Likely to Encounter Violence
Children who see domestic abuse play out in the home are more likely than children who don't see such violence to act out the violence later on. In fact, one study finds that children who observe violence in the home are 15 times more likely to experience sexual or physical assault than the national average. This could suggest that growing up in a violent home might normalize dysfunction such that children find themselves in situations mirroring what they're used to.
2. Millions of Children Witness Violence at Home Every Year
According to one report, researchers believe between 3.3 million and 10 million kids are exposed to domestic violence among adults annually. Unfortunately, domestic violence isn't a rarity.
And it's also true that there's also a trickle-down effect of violence since kids don't only witness many acts of violence in the home. They're often on the receiving end of mistreatment as well. For example, each year, there are around four million referrals for suspected maltreatment to child protective agencies. So, the most vulnerable in society don't just witness violence. They are also the victims of mistreatment from people they depend on for the necessities of life.
3. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Experienced By Kids Exposed to Family Violence
One study focusing on pre-schoolers in the low-income home demographic discovers that kids in homes where violence takes place often experience post-traumatic stress disorder. It can take the form of bed-wetting, headaches, the flu, allergies, asthma, and nightmares.
Post-traumatic stress disorders occur in people who have gone through dangerous, shocking, or scary events. And any child who has seen violence in the home can experience this disorder.
4. Females in Violent Households Face Higher Risks of Dating Violence
Females who see domestic violence among their parents are much more likely than females who don't see domestic violence in the home to experience dating violence. Again, this demonstrates that kids who witness violence in their homes might start to see antisocial behavior as acceptable.
5. Kids Who Witness Domestic Violence At Great Risk of Serious Health Issues
Kids who experience trauma during their formative years are more likely to experience severe health issues as adults. For instance, such children are more likely to experience heart disease, cancer, depression, obesity, substance abuse, and more. These issues can negatively impact the quality of life and even shorten lifespans.
As you can see, domestic violence has a considerable impact on children throughout their lives. Recognizing the problem and striving to ensure kids are in safe environments is essential.
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