Domestic violence is a pattern of behavior that one person in a relationship uses to control
the other. The behavior may be verbally, emotionally, physically, financially, or sexually abusive.
You as a parent may have left an abusive relationship or you may still be in one.how children may react to domestic
violence, and how you can best help them to feel safe and valued and develop personal strength.
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children experience domestic violence in many ways. They may hear one parent threaten or
demean the other, or see a parent who is angry or afraid. They may see or hear one parent
physically hurt the other and cause injuries or destroy property. Children may live with
the fear that something will happen again. They may even be the targets of abuse.
Most children who live with domestic violence can
recover and heal from their experiences. One of
the most important factors that helps children
do well after experiencing domestic violence is
a strong relationship with a caring, nonviolent
parent. As a caring parent, you can promote your
children’s recovery by taking steps to increase
safety in the family, helping your kids develop
relationships with other supportive adults, and
encouraging them in school or other activities
that make them feel happy and proud.