PCA Illinois - Domestic Violence - Identifying Children

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Effects of Domestic Violence on Children

IDENTIFYING CHILDREN WHO LIVE WITH VIOLENCE
These signs don't prove that a child is being abused. But they could be a signal that the child and his or her family need help

INFANTS	Frequent Illinesses or other health problems Sleeping problems Excessive crying
TODDLERS All the above, plus...	Shynnes or withdrawn behavior Reluctant to be touched Aggresive behavior, excessive biting and hitting Speech problems Loss of skills such as toilet training
SCHOOL AGE CHILDREN All the above, plus...	Increased aches and pains Headaches and /or stomach aches Stealing and Lying Nightmares Eating Disorders Drug/alcohol use	Self-abusive behaviors Depression Perfectionism Regression Takes on parenting role Anger at siblins
TEENAGERS All the above, plus...	Helplessness and/or hopelessness Anger and confused feelings toward parents-both the abusing and the parent Isolation - doesn't bring friends home Delinquent behavior Sexual acting out Violent relationships with others Suicide thoughts and/or attempts

Not all children who live in violent homes will show physical signs of the abuse. Emotional reactions of children who witness violence.

Feeling Responsible

Constant Anxiety

Guilt

Grief

Ambivalence

Fear of Abandonment

Fear of Harm

Worry about the Future

Confusion

Loneliness

Shame

Powerlessness

Distrust

Anger

Rage

Terror

THE FACTS

WARNING SIGNS

REPORTING ABUSE