Family violence is a serious social issue that affects everyone in a family – children, parents and other members of the extended family. Extensive research confirms the devastating impact family violence can have on children’s lives and their physical and emotional development. Family violence can affect children in many ways. Living in a tense or frightening environment and ‘walking on eggshells’ may cause children to feel the same fear, intimidation and threat to their safety as those that are the direct victims of violence.
Some children and young people might show signs that their situation is affecting them and others may keep their feelings inside. It’s important that you can recognise the signs that your child may not be coping so you can take steps to provide support.
If you are concerned about your own child or any child that is affected by family violence, it’s important to know that help is available.
Parents and carers of any child who may be affected by domestic and family violence can assist by:
Centacare offers a safe and supportive space for those impacted by domestic and family violence. Visit domestic and family violence counselling to find out more.