
Creating Peace, Changing Lives
The Effects of Domestic Abuse
The effects can last a lifetime for both victims, as well as children who witness abuse.
With the correct support, effects can be minimised drastically.
EFFECTS ON CHILDREN
WHO WITNESS ABUSE
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Anxiety
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Depression
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Failure to thrive in school
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Fearful
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Social and behavioural problems
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Withdrawn
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Heightened reactivity to situations
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Nightmares/bed wetting
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Separation anxiety
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Limited friendships
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Physical fights with peers
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Risk taking behaviour
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Substance misuse
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Promiscuous behaviour
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Eating disorders
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Low self-esteem
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Self-harm
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Suicidal
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Mimicking of abusive and violent behaviour
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Cycle of abuse may continue into the next generation
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EFFECTS ON VICTIMS
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Fatigue
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Low Self esteem
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Muscle tension
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Post traumatic stress disorder
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Flashbacks
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Nightmares
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Depression
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Anxiety
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Suicidal thoughts
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Emotionally withdrawn
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Alcohol misuse
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Drug abuse
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Feeling hopeless
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Feeling unworthy
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Apprehensive about the future
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Inability to trust
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Unmotivated
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Questioning of religious faith
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Effects parenting capacity
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Self harm
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Loss of confidence
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