Children can be affected in so many ways by living in a home where violence occurs.
 
Myths & Misconceptions:
 
"They were 'in another room/asleep, they didn't hear a thing'."  This is the most common misconception.  Children hear everything!  Children easily pick up on the building tension so they actually strain harder to hear conversations, even from other rooms.
 
"They don't know what's going on."  Children are smarter than we give them credit for.  They see the bruises, they feel the tension, they feel the sadness and anger of the parents.  Chances are, the children are wondering what they have done to cause it.
 
"It doesn't bother them, they are used to it."  Long term exposure has very detrimental effects on children.  What they see is what they learn, and what they learn is what they live.
Effects on Children:
Chronic Illnesses
Regression
Withdrawal
Depression
Low Self-Esteem
Frequent Crying
Self-mutilation
Nightmares
Difficulty concentrating
Aggressiveness
Joining Gangs
Committing crimes
Suicidal Thoughts

If your child has witnessed violence, we suggest seeking counseling to help them deal with their emotions!