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Little Eyes, Little Ears: How Violence Against a Mother Shapes Children as They Grow

NCJ Number
229007
Author(s)
Alison Cunningham; Linda Baker
Date Published
2007
Length
44 pages
Annotation
This publication examines how violence against a mother can shape a child.
Abstract
This resource provides information from the best and latest research for professionals and volunteers who provide assistance to abused women and children. Topics addressed include: what children might feel, think, and do during violent incidents against their mothers; roles children might adopt before, during, or after incidents; strategies of coping and survival; and how violence may be experienced by children of different ages, from infancy to adolescence. By learning how each child as an individual was shaped by experiences in his or her home and considering important contextual features of family life positive changes can be made. By understanding a child's view, a positive change can be nurtured: correcting distorted ideas, encouraging helpful coping, building good interpersonal skills, and fostering management of intense emotions. Mothers can be better supported as they help their children heal and thrive. 27 references