The Effects of Domestic Violence on Youth
Individuals react differently to experiencing domestic violence, but some typical responses include:
- Blame Themselves for the violence
- Depression and suicidal thoughts
- Increased stress and anxiety
- School difficulties, truancy
- Learn it's OK to use violence to solve problems
- Poor conflict resolution skills
- Increased involvement in physical violence
- Difficulty making friends
- High risk of alcohol/drug abuse
- Lack of concentration
What We Can Do to Help Youth Living with Violence?
- Watch for behavior changes or signs in children
- Report to local police when you suspect/witness domestic violence
- Be supportive and empathetic to any child who is esperiencing /disclosing domestic violence
- Volunteer at your local battered women's program to work with children and their mothers
- Encourage children to resolve conflicts nonviolently
Violence is a learned behavior and can be unlearned. Help break the cycle and silence of domestic violence. You don't have to work directly with children to have an impact on their lives. Please get involved.