Resources for Parents

Children are always affected by domestic violence.

Whether they are awake or asleep, in the same room or in another room, whether they are in the womb, infants, or teens, they are affected by emotional, psychological, and physical abuse within the household, even when it is not directed toward them.

If children are exposed to violence repeatedly, they can develop severe behavior changes. Based on their age of development, the following behaviors/reactions may be observed:

NEWBORN TO 5 YEAR OLD

Sleep and/or eating disruptions
Lack of responsiveness/Withdrawn
Intense separation anxiety
Inconsolable crying
Developmental regression, loss of acquired skills
Intense anxiety, worries or new fears
Increased aggression and/or impulsive behavior

AGES 6 TO 11

Nightmares, sleep disruptions
Aggression and difficulty with peers
Difficulty with concentration and task completion
Withdrawn/ Emotional numb
School avoidance and/or truancy

AGES 12 TO 18

School failure
Impulsive and/or reckless behaviors, such as:
- School truancy
- Substance misuse
- Running away
Involvement in violent or abusive dating relationships
Depression
Anxiety
Withdrawn