Domestic violence...
Various studies reveal that it is difficult to correctly assess the impact on children who witness domestic violence, as too many components enter into the picture.
Moreover, variability and intensity of repercussions may differ if the child is also a victim of the violence. Statistics indicate that violence directed at children is 15 times greater in families where conjugal violence is present.
Despite the difficulties in gathering such information, reports conclude that more than three million children a year are in danger of being exposed to conjugal violence.
The chief definition cited for conjugal violence is designated as inflicting harm or physical or psychological injury on a partner (National Research Council, 1998).
In Quebec psychological, verbal, physical and sexual abuse are included in this definition, as well as economic domination. Conjugal violence may be experienced in a marital, extramarital or intimate relationship at any age of life.
Where protecting a child witness of domestic violence is concerned, the Youth Protection Act is obliged to intervene when a conjugal violence situation impacts the safety and development of the child and when the parent does not desire or does not take measures to receive the necessary aid.
In Canada, 29 % of women are victims of physical violence perpetrated by their spouse or partner. In addition, 60-70% of children living in a family where the woman is ill treated witness the ill-treatment: see it or hear it (Jaffe, Wolfe & Wilson, 1990). In other words, 11-23% of children witness various acts of domestic violence.
Studies agree that, even if a child only witnesses conjugal violence, he or she will suffer enormous repercussions. Children who witness violence against the mother in fact experience affective and behavioural problems analogous to those who have suffered physical maltreatment. They are often subject to anxiety, fear, irritability, disturbing thoughts, violent image memories and unpredictable explosions of anger.
These children are also observed to have low self-esteem and difficulty managing emotions, especially frustration and aggression. Moreover, they often have more difficulty interacting adequately with peers, as they tend to use behaviour patterns learned at home.
In addition, children who witness domestic violence show behavioural problems and other symptoms such as isolation, nightmares and self-punishment.
Some studies specify that boys who witness violent acts by the father toward the mother are in greater danger of acting violently and aggressively in general and more especially in intimate or partner relationships later on.
Academically, children who witness violent acts often experience difficultly concentrating. They are at high risk of having behavioural and serious learning problems.
In extreme cases, there may appear depressive behaviour, post-traumatic stress symptoms (sleep difficulties, nightmares, intrusive thoughts when awake, concentration problems, social isolation), chronic addictions, suicidal thoughts or even severe and persistent mental health problems.
Émilie Girouard, Bachelor of Psychoeducation
