FREE ESSAY ON PROTECTING OUR CHILDREN

PROTECTING OUR CHILDREN

Protecting Our Children
The overlap between domestic violence and child abuse has been well
documented; where one form of family violence exists, there is a likelihood the other
does as well. Child abuse and domestic violence often occur in the same family and are
linked in several ways that have serious consequences for the safety of children. First
domestic violence may directly result in physical and/or psychological harm to the child.

Second, even though a child may not sustain physical injuries, domestic violence can
interfere with parenting to the point that the child is neglected. Third, if child abuse
and
domestic violence are present in a home, both problems must be addressed to effectively
intervene.
Children can be injured as a direct result of domestic violence. Batterers may
physically, emotionally, and sexually abuse children in order to control the actions of
their spouse. Children may also be injured by objects or weapons used to attack their
mother. Assaults on younger children may occur if the mother is holding the child while
being attacked. Older children who try to break up violent disputed between parents may
also sustain injuries.
Children of all ages are affected by domestic violence. Infants exposed to
violence may not develop the attachments to their caretakers which are critical to their
development. Preschool children regress developmentally and suffer sleep disturbances. 
Schoolage children who are exposed to violence may exhibit depression, anxiety, and
violence towards peers. Later in life, these children are at risk for incorporating
violence
into their own relationships. There is also evidence that children exposed to domestic
violence are at greater risk for abusing drugs and alcohol and for committing violent
crimes.
The most effective way to help mothers and children is to combine child
protective and domestic violence programs. This way both victims are protected. 
However, the abused can only be helped if they make others aware of the problem. 
Victims of domestic violence and child abuse need support from others. They should
confide in someone they trust and seek the help of police and domestic violence
programs. Together a safety plan for the mother and children can be developed.
Victims of domestic violence and child abuse need support from others. They should
confide in someone they trust and seek the help of police and domestic violence
programs. Together a safety plan for the mother and children can be developed.