Impact of Intimate Partner Violence on Children

Angela Doswell1, Sundes Kazmir2, Rachel Segal3

  • 1Division of Child Abuse and Neglect, Department of Pediatrics, Connecticut Children's, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 282 Washington Street, Hartford, CT 06106, USA.

Insights

Intimate partner violence (IPV) significantly impacts children long-term, affecting prenatal development and the mother-infant bond. This review explores identification, reporting, and interventions for children exposed to IPV.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Public Health
  • Social Sciences

Background:

  • Intimate partner violence (IPV) presents profound risks to child development.
  • Exposure can occur in utero, impacting the mother-infant dyad.
  • Child maltreatment frequently co-occurs with IPV.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the longitudinal effects of IPV on children.
  • To examine injury identification and co-occurring maltreatment.
  • To discuss reporting guidelines and supportive interventions for families affected by IPV.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on IPV and child outcomes.
  • Synthesis of research on injury identification and maltreatment.
  • Analysis of reporting considerations and resilience factors.

Main Results:

  • IPV has lasting negative consequences for children's physical and emotional well-being.
  • Identifying injuries and co-occurring maltreatment in IPV cases is crucial.
  • Effective interventions include education, home visiting, and clinical support.

Conclusions:

  • Early identification and intervention are vital for children exposed to IPV.
  • Supporting survivor caregivers enhances child resilience and outcomes.
  • Multifaceted approaches are needed to mitigate the impact of IPV on families.

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