Not all homes provide a safe haven for children. For victims of domestic violence and their children, home becomes a place where hearts are broken and lives are shattered.

 

Domestic violence spares no one, especially children who hear and witness  it or are targets themselves. Living in a home where one parent uses violence against the other places children at risk for emotional and behavioral problems. Boys who witness the abuse of their mothers by their fathers may be at greater risk for becoming men who batter in adulthood than boys from homes free of violence.

 

The physical and emotional pain can be long lasting. Children are robbed of their innocence, joy and trust. They may feel confused, wet the bed, be unable to sleep, have trouble in school or blame themselves for the violence.

 

If any of these things are happening to your children, you can get help for them and yourself. Acknowledging the pain and embarrassment of family violence and reaching out for help can be confusing. You don't have to handle the situation alone. There are many positive things that parents can do to help their children deal with the effects of violence in the family.

 

You can get help by calling the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Counselors are available to answer your questions and assist you in making a plan to help and support your children. They can help you understand how your children may be feeling. If you simply need to talk, they will listen.