Domestic violence doesn’t only impact the person being abused—it can deeply affect children and teens who witness it. Abuse isn’t always physical; it can be sexual, emotional, economic, psychological, or even technological (such as monitoring or threats made through devices and social media).
Every year, between three and 10 million children and teens in the U.S. witness domestic violence (American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry). For young people, the effects can be immediate and long-lasting, shaping how they see themselves, their relationships, and the world around them.
The Effects on Children and Teens
If you or your child have witnessed domestic violence, know that you are not alone. The impacts described below are common responses to an unsafe environment—not personal failures. With the right support, children and teens can heal and thrive.
Research shows that children and teens who witness domestic violence may face a range of effects—physical, emotional, and behavioral—both short- and long-term.
- Increased risk of abuse or abusive behavior
Children may be directly abused by the perpetrator, or later experience abuse in other relationships. The National Domestic Violence Hotline notes that 30% to 60% of intimate partner violence perpetrators also abuse children in the household.
Without intervention, witnessing abuse can normalize violence—creating a cycle that continues into the next generation.
- Withdrawal
Children and teens may become isolated, pulling back from friendships, romantic relationships, or even family connections.
- Physical health effects
Frequent headaches or stomachaches, poor hygiene, increased risk of diabetes, obesity, heart disease, or even self-harm can all occur.
- Emotional and mental health effects
Many young people struggle with confusion, fear, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or difficulty trusting others. Some develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). They may also feel guilt or blame themselves for not being able to stop the abuse.
- Regressive behaviors
Younger children may return to earlier behaviors such as bedwetting, thumb-sucking, or frequent crying.
- Sleep problems
Trouble falling asleep, nightmares, or disrupted sleep patterns are common.
- Risk behaviors
Some children cope through behaviors that may appear disruptive or risky, such as arguing with family members, bullying classmates, skipping school, or engaging in unsafe behaviors like unprotected sex or substance use.
What You Can Do
While the effects of witnessing violence are serious, healing is possible with support. Children and teens need to know they are safe, cared for, and not to blame for the violence they have seen. Talking with them about their feelings and what healthy relationships look like can make a lasting difference.
Children are resilient. With safety, love, and consistent support, they can heal and grow into adults who build healthier, safer relationships. Counseling, school support, and positive community connections all play a role in recovery.
Support at Pillars Community Health
Pillars Community Health offers services for survivors of domestic violence and support for children and teens who witness abuse.
- Domestic Violence Shelter at Constance Morris House, providing safety and support for survivors and their children.
- Crisis intervention, medical and legal advocacy, and counseling to help survivors rebuild their lives.
- Domestic Violence Hotline (available 24/7): 708-485-5254
No child should have to carry the burden of violence alone—and no parent has to face this journey without support.
Together we can break the cycle of violence.