Several hundred written accounts that juxtaposed children and family violence were identified through a search of seven databases. Twenty-nine empirical articles that specifically addressed the initial effects on children of witnessing domestic violence were the focus of this review. The findings of these articles indicate that children who witness domestic violence are at risk for maladaptation in one or more of the following domains of functioning: behavioral, emotional, social, cognitive, and physical. Studies conducted since 1986 have reduced some of the previously reported equivocation regarding the effects of witnessing domestic violence on children. In particular, recent research confirms the results of several earlier studies regarding the effects on children in the area of emotional and behavioral development; however, there is insufficient research on social, cognitive, and physical functioning to draw useful conclusions at this time. Suggestions for future research in this area are offered. 1 table and 36 references