Possible Effects on Children Who Live With Domestic Violence

Physical Effects:  

• Frequent complaints about headaches and/or stomach aches
• Nervousness, anxiousness, and short attention span
• Tired and lethargic
• Frequently ill
• Poor personal hygiene
• Regression in their development (like sucking their thumbs)
• Eating disorders
• Substance or alcohol abuse

Emotional Effects:

• Shame, guilt, and self blame
• Crying
• Anxiety and sadness
• Confusion
• Anger and depression
• Suicidal behavior
• Nightmares
• Fears and phobias
• Low self-esteem

Behavioral Effects:

• Acts as a substitute parent or caretaker
• Increased aggressive behavior, angry outbursts
• Withdrawing into or isolating themselves
• Bedwetting and nightmares
• Difficulties at home or at school
• Rigid defenses
• Excessive attention seeking

Social Effects:

• Difficulty in trusting, especially adults
• Poor anger management
• Involved in exploitative relationships
• Excessive social involvement (to avoid home life)
• May be passive with peers or may bully peers
• Isolations from friends and relatives
• Exceedingly rough while interacting with peers

What to do if a child discloses domestic violence in the home

• Be patient and listen to what the child is trying to disclose
• Let the child know that it is not his/her fault
• Educate yourself on domestic violence and resources in the community so that you are better able to help the child and other children
• Children witnessing the domestic violence are victims of abuse themselves, under the New Mexico law you must report any type of child abuse.

Reporting Child Abuse

To Report Child Abuse and neglect call: (SCI) Statewide Central Intake 1-800-797-3260 or CYFD in Las Cruces 1-505-524-6400