NCJ Number
183318
Journal
Future of Children Volume: 9 Issue: 3 Dated: Winter 1999 Pages: 21-32
Date Published
1999
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This analysis of the prevalence and effects of children’s exposure to domestic violence among adults concludes that large numbers of children are affected, although scientifically credible estimates of the national prevalence of the problem do not exist.
Abstract
Methodological problems also limit the research examining the effects of child exposure to domestic violence. Nevertheless, the available data support the conclusion that such exposure has adverse effects. The specific effects may differ depending on the children’s ages, the nature and severity of the violence, the existence of other risk factors in the children’s lives, and whether the children are also directly physically abused. In general, childhood exposure to domestic violence can be associated with increased aggressive behavior, increased emotional problems such as depression or anxiety, lower levels of social competence, and poorer academic functioning. Developing a scientifically credible array of research on the prevalence and effects of childhood exposure to domestic violence is essential to the development of effective interventions and to permit the proper channeling of public and private funds. A five-phase strategy to develop greater research capacity would start with identification of existing data sets that could increase knowledge. Photographs and 39 reference notes (Author abstract modified)