Family and Community Violence: Domestic Violence and Youth, Week 4, Blog #1

Domestic violence includes physical abuse, sexual abuse, psychological abuse and abuse to property and pets. Children that are exposed to this form of violence has the potential to leave a lasting impression that can give children a sense of vulnerability and helplessness. Domestic violence is widespread and occurs among all social economic groups. 

I think a major focal point of the article, "Domestic Violence Crimes and Children" and the film, "The Impact of Domestic Violence on Youth" are identifying the behaviors that are categorized as "risk factors" and implementing a plan for intervention, reform and treatment for chose children that have been exposed to domestic violence. 

Research suggests that exposure to domestic violence shows significantly more social, emotional, and cognitive problems compared to their non-exposed peers. In the film, they mention that A.D.H.D is a common diagnosis and a concern with adolescents exposed to domestic violence because the behavioral signs associated with hyper-vigilance. These signs include elevated stress, predictably/unpredictable, over-effective coping strategies and irritability (The Impact of Domestic Violence on Youth, 2009).  

Consequently, children with more long-term exposure of domestic violence are at higher risk of academic failure, school drop-out, delinquency, and substance abuse. Research also suggests long term exposure is more likely to be in dating relationships that become verbally, mentally, emotionally, sexually and/or physically abusive.

Addressing the issues and the needs of children that come from a background of exposure to domestic violence in the home is a way to reduce and/or overcome the emotional issues is very important and necessary.  One way to address the issues and concerns of children who witness domestic violence is through group and/or individual therapy. 

Therapy allows and promotes open discussion of the children's experiences. For many children, the process of retelling or reenacting a traumatic event in the safety of a therapeutic relationship is in itself a healing experience, and a first step toward integrating the experience into their understanding of themselves (Groves, p.2). In addition, therapists seek to help children understand and cope with their emotional responses to the violence. Through therapy, mental health and social services, they can play an active role to break the circle of violence and help seek to reduce the symptoms the children are experiencing in response to the violence. 

These services not only provide useful services in counseling but it works to help the family create a safe, stable, and nurturing environment for the child.


References:

Groves, Betsy McAlister. (2007). Mental Health Services for Children Who Witness Domestic Violence.

Fusco, R. A., & Fantuzzo, J. W. (2009). Domestic violence crimes and children: A population-based investigation of direct sensory exposure and the nature of involvement. Children and Youth Services Review, 31 (2), 249-256. 

University of Wisconsin series on Issues for Youth Advocates and the Systems in which They Work (Producer). (2009, March 30) The Impact of Domestic Violence on Youth.