Protective influences on children exposed to intimate partner violence

Children exposed to intimate partner violence (IPV) can experience a range of negative behavioral and developmental outcomes. Examining protective influences in the lives of children exposed to IPV is critical in order to develop effective interventions for this population. This descriptive study examines protective influences on the children of participants in a community-based program that provides concurrent legal and social services to families who have left violent situations. Client and child outcomes are measured through parent report on the Global History Questionnaire. Frequency analysis revealed that approximately 87% of children in this sample (n=60) were exposed to at least one form of IPV, including witnessing an assault; overhearing abuse; and being used to intimidate the client. After leaving the violent situation, 78% often felt unsafe, and 70% experienced problems adjusting to financial changes and changes in contact with the abuser. Protective influences on these children included positive relationships adults such as mothers (75%) and grandparents (60%); and other children such as siblings and friends (42%). Participants also reported that children were most attached to these family members in addition to pets. Participation in several activities helped children cope with their situations: faith-based (40%) and after-school (35%) activities, as well as computer and video games (50%). Bivariate and multivariate analyses will consider additional relationships between type of violence exposure, positive influences on the child, and child outcomes. Results indicate that children exposed to violence do experience negative outcomes, and additional attention to developing social support for these children is necessary.