Each year millions of children suffer because they live in homes where violence prevails. Constant violence in the home can have a devastating effect on a child, and too often they are the direct targets when violence lives in the home. Violent behavior is not limited to parents but can also include a trusted child-care provider, relative, neighborhood children or other acquaintances.

Practitioners and researchers have long been interested in whether early childhood victimization is a significant risk factor for later involvement in violence. One study, which focused on children aged 7 to 12, shows that 69 percent of the children who had been maltreated reported being involved in violence as compared to 56 percent of those who had not been maltreated. In other words, a history of maltreatment increases the chances of youth violence by 24 percent.

Violence affects children of every income level, social background and race. Violence does not discriminate, but studies have shown that children with behavioral disabilities are usually the targets of physical violence, while children with physical disabilities are more often the victims of neglect.

Are there signs that indicate that children are viewing or experiencing too much violence?

• Children who live with danger and violence may feel like a referee or protector within the family structure.

• Some children may cry constantly, stiffen when held, or may develop a stuttering behavior.

• Children may develop a love/hate relationship with a certain person.

• Children may start to mimic the violence they see and consider it as normal.

• Children may portray acts of violence on family pets.

• Children may be overly fearful, extremely tense or often confused when it comes to getting along with others.

• Children may isolate themselves from others or experience regressed behavior(s) such as baby talk, stop using the potty, bedwetting, etc.

Are there some answers to help parents stop violence in the home?

• Seek out positive role models in the family, friends or community that live without violence.

• Parent education can help parents understand personality traits and obtain family support.

• Set clear limits and establish a method to eliminate violent interactions at home.

• Plan ways to reduce stress and get support from an accredited source.

• Establish 'safe' places to go if the occasion arises.

• Be a supportive model to your child by controlling your temper and handling stress.

• Reduce the violence your child watches on television, listens to music or plays in games.

• Do not encourage children to fight with others but teach them how to seek non-aggression assistance.

Dan Dawson, Prevention Educator at the Springfield Extension Center, University of Illinois Extension, (217) 782-6515, or dddawson@uiuc.edu

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