Child & Family Services

Family Violence effects everyone not just the victim. Children suffer too. Research suggests that between 80 & 90 percent of these children are aware of the violence. Children who grow up in violent homes greatly risk the possibility of emotional, behavioral and physical problems that last for a lifetime. Depression; anxiety; violence toward peers; suicide attempt; drug & alcohol abuse and running away from home are just some of the issues that stem from the violence in the home. Children also can be injured as a direct result from abuse. Batterers sometimes intentionally injure children in an effort to intimidate and control the partners. For younger children assaults may occur while the mother is holding her child or for older children, injuries often occur when they try to intervene in violent episodes. Boys are twice as likely to become batterers and girls are more likely to find themselves in abusive relationships. Children are fearful and powerless in violent homes. They, too, need help and protection. Break free from violence and stop the cycle for your children.