Domestic Violence has risen significantly since the beginning of the COVID pandemic. Thousands of children either have or continue to witness violence in their homes that they have never seen before. In many cases, they may not be the intended “victim,” but they are deeply affected anyway.
When children witness a parent being abused for the first time, fear and terror cling to them like a wet t-shirt. But unlike a shirt that can be thrown in the dryer, this fear can stay with them indefinitely. Along with this, as with many other forms of abuse, comes confusion about the perpetrator. This person hurting their parent can be someone the child admires and even loves.
A child who survives a home with domestic violence can be torn between two loyalties: the parent who is the intended victim, and the other parent or person who is the perpetrator. This is why it is so vital that these children receive the counseling they need once they are in a safe environment. Then they will be able to hopefully deal with these conflicting emotions.
While preserving the family unit is often the goal, safety, and healing for the traumatized child should be the priority. Today there are counselors available to these kids who have been witnesses and victims of domestic violence. Let’s continue to protect these children so they can prosper and succeed.
