NCJ Number
154137
Journal
Family Violence and Sexual Assault Bulletin Volume: 10 Issue: 3-4 Dated: (1994) Pages: 29-34
Date Published
1994
Length
6 pages
Annotation
Etiological factors suggest that children exposed to parental violence may present a complex pattern of clinical symptoms and treatment needs.
Abstract
Children who witness parental violence may have behavioral, school, and social difficulties and may feel responsible for family violence. As psychological abuse victims, research suggests that children exposed to parental violence may encounter difficulties in learning and forming relationships and may behave in situationally inappropriate ways. If children have also been physically or sexually abused, they may have problems with aggressive and violent behavior, depression and withdrawal, substance abuse and other self-destructive behaviors, emotional maladjustment, interpersonal problems, and academic difficulties. The treatment approach for children exposed to parental violence depends on the symptoms involved. Many symptoms that mark more traditional diagnoses also accompany trauma reactions, but certain trauma symptoms decrease over time when a child is in a safe and caring environment. A major consideration in diagnosis and treatment is the child's developmental level. Treatment modalities and stages for children exposed to family violence are discussed that are designed to promote nonviolent interpersonal relationships. 33 references and 2 tables