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Violence and Agency in Children's Narratives
1School of Social Work; Institute of Childhood, Youth, and Family, Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Pfingstweidstrasse 96, 8005 Zurich, Switzerland.
International Journal on Child Maltreatment : Research, Policy and Practice
|March 2, 2026
Summary
Children experiencing family violence demonstrate agency through spatial distancing, resistance, and prevention strategies. Despite these efforts, their agency is limited by their vulnerable position within adult power hierarchies, preventing long-term violence cessation.
Area of Science:
- Childhood studies
- Sociology
- Psychology
Background:
- Family violence significantly impacts children's subjective experiences.
- Understanding children's agency is crucial for addressing their vulnerabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the agency of children aged 10-14 who have experienced family violence.
- To analyze how children narrate their ability to act and their power within violent contexts.
Main Methods:
- Semi-structured interviews with children aged 10-14.
- Qualitative analysis of children's narratives regarding family violence experiences.
Main Results:
- Children employ strategies like spatial distancing, resistance, and seeking help.
- They develop prevention tactics and utilize interviews for empowerment.
- Agency is constrained by children's subordinate position in adult power structures.
Conclusions:
- Children exhibit agency in navigating family violence, yet remain vulnerable.
- Their strategies do not guarantee long-term prevention of violence.
- Acknowledging children's agency must be balanced with addressing systemic vulnerabilities.
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