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Children's Exposure to Domestic Violence: A Guide to Research and Resources

NCJ Number
217782
Author(s)
Alicia Summers
Date Published
2006
Length
109 pages
Annotation
This guide is intended to help judges and practitioners identify and understand the key issues associated with children's exposure to domestic violence.
Abstract
Part I focuses on the variety of effects on children of exposure to partner violence in their home. A broad cross-section of research is presented regarding the psychological, behavioral, cognitive, and physical effects on children who directly or indirectly are exposed to such violence. The effects examined include short-term and long-term consequences of exposure to domestic violence. Part I also examines the research and issues related to co-occurring child maltreatment and domestic violence, as well as the prevalence of substance abuse in these families. Part II provides an overview of legal issues that may be involved in children's exposure to domestic violence. State child witness laws and child abuse laws related to domestic violence are reviewed, along with relevant case law. The critical areas of custody and visitation are addressed as well. Part III discusses various system responses to children who are exposed to domestic violence. The programs examined encompass the legal/court system, child protection services, services for domestic violence victims and their children, law enforcement responses, and collaborative efforts. Part IV provides additional resources pertinent to children's exposure to violence. Information is provided on national organizations that are working on issues related to the overlap of domestic violence and child maltreatment, links to informational Web sites, and recommendations for additional reading and research materials.