Day 4 of 16 Days of Activism - Child Victims of Abuse

Child Victims of Abuse: The Impact of Domestic Violence and the Need for Stronger Protections

This article is written by Janette Hermann, a Social Worker in Private Practice, a Sessional Worker at The Teddy Bear Foundation, and a passionate advocate for Children’s Rights and the Prevention of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide. Drawing on her expertise and research, including a case study conducted by Hermann (2023) at The University of Cape Town, this article sheds light on the significant harm caused by domestic violence to children. It highlights the urgent need for stronger protections, early interventions, and collective action to safeguard children and break the cycle of abuse.

Children exposed to domestic violence are not merely passive observers; they are silent victims. The harm they endure—whether physical, emotional, or psychological—begins as early as the womb and can extend well into adulthood. This article explores the profound effects of domestic violence on children and the necessary steps to protect them.

Witnessing Domestic Violence Is Child Abuse

It is critical to recognise that when a child witnesses domestic violence, it is not merely an unfortunate circumstance—it is child abuse. Whether the exposure is intentional or unintentional, it constitutes victimisation and subjects the child to emotional and psychological harm. Parents or caregivers who expose a child to violence, even indirectly, are placing them in a situation of vulnerability and risk. This exposure strips children of the safety and stability they need to thrive and amounts to exposing a child to abuse and further harm. It is imperative to view these situations as a serious breach of the child’s right to protection. Safeguarding children from such environments is essential to ensuring their well-being and development.

The Impact of Domestic Violence on Children

Before Birth: Impact in the Womb

The effects of domestic violence can start as early as pregnancy. Pregnant mothers who experience abuse often face significant stress, which affects the developing baby. Stress hormones, such as cortisol, can cross the placenta and influence the foetus, leading to:

• Low birth weight and preterm birth, which are associated with developmental delays.

• Changes in brain structure, impacting emotional regulation and learning.

• Behavioural challenges, such as increased aggression or anxiety later in life.

Madigan et al. (2019) and Dr Shaheda Omar (2024) highlight the long-term effects of prenatal exposure to maternal stress caused by domestic violence. These include emotional dysregulation, learning difficulties, and a higher risk of mental health issues.

Emotional and Psychological Harm

Children who witness domestic violence often experience deep emotional scars. They may feel constant fear, confusion, and instability, which disrupt their sense of safety and self-worth. Research by Middleton and Hardy (2014) points to:

• Anxious attachments, where children struggle to trust others.

• Social withdrawal, avoiding peers due to fear or low self-esteem.

• Chronic fear and hypervigilance, as they are constantly on edge, anticipating danger.

Over time, these emotional wounds can develop into serious mental health issues, such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or self-harm.

Behavioural and Cognitive Challenges

Exposure to domestic violence disrupts a child’s ability to learn, behave, and interact with others. Common challenges include:

• Aggressive behaviour, imitating the violence they have witnessed at home.

• Difficulty focusing, as stress and trauma make it hard to concentrate in school.

• Poor academic performance, with delays in literacy and numeracy (Orr et al., 2021).

These disruptions often persist, affecting the child’s long-term potential and future opportunities.

The Cycle of Violence

Children who grow up in violent homes are at risk of perpetuating or becoming victims of abuse in adulthood. Dr Bessel van der Kolk (2014) explains:

• Boys exposed to violence are seven times more likely to become abusive partners.

• Girls exposed to violence are significantly more likely to become victims of domestic abuse.

This generational cycle highlights the urgent need for early interventions to break the chain of violence.

The "Toxic Trio": A Dangerous Combination

The “toxic trio” refers to three interconnected factors that often co-exist in homes with domestic violence:

1. Domestic Violence: Harmful behaviours between caregivers that children witness or experience.

2. Substance Abuse: Alcohol or drug misuse by parents, which exacerbates the risk of violence or neglect.

3. Mental Health Issues: Depression, anxiety, or personality disorders in caregivers, creating an unstable environment.

Brandon et al. (2013) revealed that at least one element of the toxic trio was present in 86% of cases involving serious harm to children. When all three factors are present, the risks for children multiply, leading to greater vulnerability and harm.

Figure 1: Toxic Trio

Legislative Protections and Challenges

South African Law

South Africa’s Domestic Violence Act 116 of 1998 explicitly recognises exposing children to violence as a form of abuse. The Children's Act (38 of 2005) further upholds the principle that the best interests of the child are paramount. However, enforcement of these laws remains a challenge due to underreporting, societal stigma, and resource limitations.

Global Perspectives

The Convention on the Rights of the Child (United Nations, 1989) asserts every child’s right to live free from violence. Australia’s Family Law Act acknowledges that exposure to domestic violence is child abuse and prioritises children’s voices in legal proceedings. These international frameworks highlight the need for child-centred reforms in South Africa and beyond.

How Can We Help?

1. Early Intervention:

• Provide counselling and stress management support for expectant mothers.

• Intervene in early childhood to mitigate long-term impacts of violence exposure.

1. Listen to Children:

• Include children’s voices in court decisions to ensure their needs and perspectives are heard.

1. Raise Awareness:

• Educate communities about the long-term effects of domestic violence on children and encourage reporting of suspected abuse.

1. Address the Toxic Trio:

• Develop holistic approaches that address domestic violence, substance abuse, and mental health challenges simultaneously.

1. Strengthen Support Systems:

• Ensure accessible shelters, legal aid, and trauma-informed services for affected families.

Conclusion

Children exposed to domestic violence are among the most vulnerable members of society. Their suffering, whether seen or unseen, leaves lasting scars that shape their emotional, psychological, and social well-being. By recognising exposure to violence as child abuse and taking decisive action, we can break the generational cycle of harm and build a safer future for all children. This requires a collective effort—raising awareness, enforcing stronger protections, and prioritising the voices and needs of children.

References

1. Bezuidenhout, F. (2017). A reader on selected social issues (6th ed.). Van Schaik Publishers.

2. Brandon, M., Bailey, S., Belderson, P., & Larsson, B. (2013). Neglect and serious case reviews. London: NSPCC.

3. Carter, L. S., Weithorn, L. A., & Behrman, R. E. (1999). Domestic Violence and Children: Analysis and Recommendations. The Future of Children, 9(3), 4–20.

4. Domestic Violence Act 116 of 1998 (South Africa). (2023). Juta: Claremont.

5. Graham-Bermann, S. A., & Levendosky, A. A. (2011). The Impact of Domestic Violence on Children. American Journal of Orthopsychiatry.

6. Hermann, J. (2023). Contemporary Issues in Criminal Justice Social Work. University of Cape Town. [Assignment].

7. Jackson, R., & Murrell, A. R. (2009). Child Witnesses of Domestic Violence: Do Adults Really Understand Them?

8. Madigan, S., Wade, M., Plamondon, A., & Jenkins, J. M. (2019). Prenatal maternal stress and developmental outcomes in children: A systematic review. Developmental Review, 51, 48-65.

9. Mediation Institute. (2023) Family Violence in Australia. Presentation.

10. Middleton, C., & Hardy, J. (2014). Vulnerability and the “toxic trio”: The role of health visiting. Community Practitioner: The Journal of the Community Practitioners’ & Health Visitors’ Association, 87(12), 38–39.

11. Omar, S. (2024). Panel discussion on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF). [Panel Presentation]. The Teddy Bear Foundation.

12. Orr, C., O’Donnell, M., Fisher, C., Bell, M., Glauert, R., & Preen, D. (2021). School Readiness of Children Exposed to Family and Domestic Violence. Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 37(21–22), NP20428–NP20458.

13. Skinner, G. C. M., Bywaters, P. W. B., Bilson, A., Duschinsky, R., Clements, K., & Hutchinson, D. (2021). The ‘toxic trio’ (domestic violence, substance misuse, and mental ill-health): How good is the evidence base? Children and Youth Services Review, 120, 105678.

14. United Nations. (1989). Convention on the Rights of the Child. https://www.unicef.org/media/52626/file

15. Van der Kolk, B. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. Penguin Books.

Children are the heart of our future, carrying the hopes and dreams of a better tomorrow. Their innocence and development are deeply shaped by the environment in which they grow. Protecting them from experiencing or witnessing domestic violence is crucial because such exposure can cause lasting emotional scars, disrupt their sense of safety, and influence how they perceive relationships. By safeguarding their well-being, we nurture emotionally healthy, resilient individuals who can grow into compassionate and empowered adults. Every child deserves to feel safe, loved, and valued in a world free from harm.

Protecting the Most Vulnerable – Child Victims of Abuse

Every year, millions of children around the world experience the devastating effects of domestic violence. These young, innocent lives are often the silent victims of abuse, caught in the crossfire of pain and control, with no voice to cry out for help.

Today, on Day 4 of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, we focus on child victims of abuse, the lasting impact of domestic violence on their lives, and the urgent need for stronger protections globally, including in South Africa.

Understanding Child Abuse and Domestic Violence

Child abuse is any act of harm or neglect directed at children. It can be physical, emotional, sexual, or economic—and in the context of domestic violence, children often suffer indirectly by witnessing abuse or being used as tools in controlling a parent.

Globally, the situation is similarly dire. According to UNICEF:

• Up to 275 million children worldwide witness domestic violence annually.

• Children who experience or witness abuse are twice as likely to become victims or perpetrators of violence later in life.

Worldwide Resources

• UNICEF Child Helpline (Global): Visit Child Helpline International for a directory of local hotlines.

• UK: Call NSPCC at 0808 800 5000 for concerns about a child.

• USA: Call the National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453).

• Australia: Call Kids Helpline at 1800 551 800.

Breaking the Cycle: What We Can Do Together

1. Speak Up

   • Report suspected abuse immediately. Your action could save a life.

2. Support Safe Spaces

   • Advocate for shelters, child care services, and resources that protect children.

3. Raise Awareness

   • Share information about child abuse and how to prevent it using hashtags like #16DaysOfActivism, #EndChildAbuse, and #ProtectOurKids.

4. Educate Children

   • Teach kids about their rights, body autonomy, and how to seek help if they feel unsafe.

5. Volunteer or Donate

   • Support organizations that provide resources for children affected by domestic violence.

A Survivor’s Voice

"I grew up in a home where shouting and violence were normal. I thought it was my fault, and for years, I stayed silent. When a teacher finally noticed my bruises and helped me speak up, it saved my life. Today, I work to help other children find their voice and escape the pain I knew too well."
— Anonymous Survivor

Today’s Challenge: Take Action for Children

1. Share This Post

   • Use your platform to spread awareness about the impact of domestic violence on children.

2. Learn and Advocate

   • Research local child protection laws and push for their enforcement in your community.

3. Support Victims

   • Donate to or volunteer with organizations that provide safe spaces for children.

4. Engage Your Community

   • Start a conversation about how to protect children from abuse in schools, religious spaces, or neighborhood groups.

Every Day Matters

Domestic violence doesn’t just harm individuals—it damages families, communities, and future generations. By focusing on child victims of abuse today, we can break the cycle of violence and ensure every child grows up in a safe, loving environment.

Let’s commit to protecting children—not just during these 16 days, but every single day.

#16DaysOfActivism #EndChildAbuse #ProtectOurKids #RiseTogether