The Child Witness of Family Violence

Abstract

Explores the serious psychological issues that emerge when children witness their parents' violence. The cases of Maria & Billy are used to show that witnessing marital violence can significantly affect the child's cognitive, emotional, & behavioral functioning. A description of each case includes the specific circumstances that brought the families to the attention of professionals. Results of psychopathological assessments are discussed, along with related medical, legal, social, & family issues, including the presence of a crisis environment in the home; troubled parent-child relationships; & strained sibling relationships. Evaluative sessions with Maria & Billy revealed concerns over their ability to cope with traumatic memories of the violence; alternating feelings of powerlessness & a powerful need to control people or events; & emotional difficulties related to regulation & expression. Treatment recommendations are discussed, along with the need for therapists to maintain a systems framework during evaluation & treatment. 44 References. J. Lindroth