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What is Domestic Violence?

Abusive Behaviors:
- Signs for Victims
- Signs for Aggressors

Effects of Domestic Violence on Children

Why Victims Stay

Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Victim Guide

Domestic Violence Restraining Orders

North County Family Violence Prevention Center (NCFVPC)

Personalized Safety Plan

DV Links

Services - Domestic Violence Unit

Effects of Domestic Violence on Children

"Studies show that children exposed to violence and maltreatment suffer increased depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, anger, alcohol and drug abuse, and lower academic achievement. Children exposed to violence, either as victims or witnesses, are more likely to become juvenile and adult offenders." California State Attorney General's Office Safe From the Start Program.

According to The Family Violence Prevention Fund - a national domestic violence advocacy group in San Francisco:

• Children can be adversely affected by witnessing domestic violence. Although many parents believe that they can hide domestic violence from their children, children living in these homes report differently. Research suggests that between 80 and 90 percent of these children are aware of the violence. Even if they do not see a beating, they hear the screams and see the bruises, broken bones, and abrasions sustained by their mothers.

• Infants exposed to violence may not develop the attachments to their caretakers that are critical to their development; in extreme cases they may suffer from "failure to thrive." Preschool children in violent homes may regress developmentally and suffer sleep disturbances, including nightmares. School-age children who witness violence may exhibit a range of problem behaviors including depression, anxiety, and violence towards peers. Adolescents who have grown up in violent homes are at risk for recreating the abusive relationships they have seen.

Links:

San Diego County Child Protective Services 24-Hour Hotline: 1-800-344-6000

Children's Hospital- Family Violence Program: 619-282-3970