A male commits three-quarters of the cases of family violence, according to the 2005 U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Statistics report as reported by the Family Violence Prevention Fund. The Prevention Fund also reports that the Shannan Catalano with U.S Department of Justice cites that in the United States, more than three women a day are killed by a spouse or significant other. Children who witness this kind of violence in their families can suffer traumatic, long-lasting effects. These effects can do mental and emotional harm, and even cause problems with their behaviors and ability to interact well with others.
Depression, Anxiety And Guilt
Depression can be a direct result of witnessing family violence, according to Safe At Home. The youth may feel a lack of control with their family situation and feel helpless to right the problems. The American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress reports that a youth may also suffer from eating problems or difficulty with sleeping. In addition, Safe at Home also reports that a youth can also experience anxiety or guilt about their situation. According to the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress, a youth may feel that he is doing something wrong and causing the violence in their homes. This type of mental anguish can take a toll on a young person, especially if he is unable or unwilling to discuss problems, and this can ultimately lead to low self-esteem.
Social Problems And Behavior
Some youth react to family violence by suffering from social problems, according to the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress. They may also withdraw from social situations and become loners. They may have fewer friends or even avoid peer relationships all together. In fact, the American Academy of Experts reports girls are especially at risk for socially withdrawing without anyone realizing that anything is wrong. In addition, it also reports that some children can have oppositional or defiant behaviors. They may rebel against any adult, including teachers and parents. The American Academy also reports that younger children may have temper tantrums or get into frequent fights at school or with other family members.
Post Traumatic Stress
Repeated cases of witnessing family violence can result in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, according to the American Academy. PTSD is an emotional illness because of a frightening, traumatic event happening to a person. PTSD can cause a litany of symptoms, which include mental stress, nightmares, intense fear, emotional problems, and even behavioral problems. The American Academy reports that children who suffer from PTSD may have a great deal functioning with daily life and psychological treatment is necessary for improvement.
References
- Family Violence Prevention Fund: Get the Facts: The Facts on Domestic Dating and Sexual Violence
- Safe At Home: Family Violence -- Children and Young People
- American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress: Effects of Domestic Violence on Children and Adolescents: An Overview: Joseph S. Volpe, Ph.D., B.C.E.T.S
- U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Statistics: Intimate Partner Violence in the United States: 2007: Shannan Catalano
- U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Statistics: Family Violence Statistics: Including Statistics on Strangers and Acquaintances: 2005
