The Effects Of Domestic Violence On Children - 2555 Words

The purpose of this research was to examine the affects of physical, emotional, sexual, and even economic abuse in families, also known as domestic violence. Domestic violence often escalates in stages. Usually, the abuse is cyclical and escalates beginning with threats and verbal abuse, later resulting in violence. Although, physical injury by a partner may be the most evident danger, the emotional and psychological effects of domestic abuse are also severe, and may go easily undetected. A screening tool called the WAST, created to detect abuse that is not so easily noticeable is introduced in this paper along with abuse prevention programs and campaigns. Research examining the reliability and validity of the WAST found it to be a†¦show more content†¦Domestic violence includes any behaviors, but are not limited to those that can be found as intimidating, humiliating, isolating, threatening, and injurious. Domestic violence often escalates in stages. Usually, the abuse is cyclical and escalates beginning with threats and verbal abuse, later resulting in violence. Although, physical injury by a partner may be the most evident danger, the emotional and psychological effects of domestic abuse are also severe, and may go easily undetected. When a relationship is emotionally abusive, it can take a huge toll on an individual’s confidence, and self worth. This lack of self-confidence can lead to issues with anxiety and depression, making victims of abuse feel helpless, abandoned, and worthless (Smith Segal, 2013). Domestic Violence can also lead to other common emotional traumas such as substance abuse and more importantly, posttraumatic stress disorder. Abuse can have such a bad psychological effect on an individual that it can trigger suicide attempts, psychotic episodes, and make recovery a very difficult process. In some cases, children are also exposed to domestic violence, and are at risk for developmental issues, psychiatric disorders, school