What are the effects of domestic violence on the family?
Many believe that the home is supposed to be a safe space in which to grow up, develop and thrive. After all—we might often rely on those closest to us for support, compassion and guidance as we get our start. With this in mind, when the home is a setting for violence, there can be severe and wide-ranging effects across the family.
Domestic violence—defined by many as violent behavior on the part of an intimate partner, family member or other close relation—can lead to serious mental and physical effects, some of which may not be readily apparent. While people who are in abusive relationships might have a hard time removing themselves from the situation, there can be options made available that can help them take the next steps toward having a healthy, safe home environment.
This article will cover many of the effects of domestic violence on families and provide possible options for survivors to get support.
What is domestic violence?
To understand the effects of domestic violence on the family, it can be important to understand what is meant by the term “domestic violence”—also called intimate partner violence when involving a romantic relationship. In short, it can involve the physical, sexual, emotional or financial abuse of one person (or people) by another (or others).
Common forms of abuse can include unwanted physical contact, ranging from occasional shoving to sexual assault or rape; emotional manipulation, including “gaslighting”, accusations of infidelity or threats of harm—as well as asserting control through denial of financial support or other resources.
The abuser might be the stronger one in the relationship in many cases—and through violence, they might use this strength to exert control over the other person. Though women and children, along with the elderly, are generally regarded as the most common survivors of domestic violence, men can also experience abuse.
If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, finding help can be key to long-term recovery—whether through legal action, a domestic violence hotline, mental health care or other channels.
Who is affected by domestic violence?
Domestic violence can affect people from all backgrounds, races, and classes. According to the CDC, domestic violence is a reality for approximately 41% of women in the US, while a reported 33% of men experience intimate partner violence in their lives. Additionally, one out of every seven children in the United States will experience abuse or neglect.
Though domestic violence is generally regarded as a widespread issue, it often goes unreported—making its true prevalence hard to grasp. Many people who experience abuse do not report it due to various factors, such as fear of retaliation, lack of reach to resources and concern regarding the response of others.
Having conversat ions about domestic violence and listening to the stories of survivors can be a vital part of addressing the issue successfully.
Effects of domestic violence on adults
It can be important to note that people can respond to traumatic events in different ways, and that the effects of abuse can vary from person to person. However, understanding the general effects can create a more empathetic and supportive societal experience for abuse survivors. We’ve listed possible effects of abuse below:
Many who experience domestic violence can develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Research shows that women, for example, who experience intimate partner violence statistically develop PTSD at a rate of between 51% and 75%—which is well above the approximately 10% rate experienced by the general population of women.
Other mental health concerns that can develop following abuse include depression, anxiety disorders and substance use disorder. Additionally, the person being abused may feel that they’ve lost control—or in some cases, start to believe that they deserve it—which can lead to self-esteem struggles in general.
The physical effects of abuse can include bruising, fractured bones, tension, disruptions in dietary or sleep patterns and exhaustion. The survivor may try to cover up these signs of abuse with long clothing or makeup, so as not to draw attention from other members of society or the home.
Additionally, individuals who are experiencing abuse might exhibit behavior that is uncharacteristic. For example: Someone who is normally happy and energetic may become withdrawn and reserved.
If you notice that someone in your life is displaying some of these signs or experiencing the above effects, you might consider reaching and offering support in a safe and appropriate manner.
Effects of domestic violence on children and adolescents
Children can experience the symptoms or signs of abuse listed above, as well as others.
Even if a child is not directly abused, when they grow up in an environment of domestic abuse or violence, they may live with fear and intense feelings of sadness. This can lead to the formation of mental health conditions later on, such as depression and substance use disorder.
A child growing up in an abusive environment may also struggle to visualize or prepare for the future, possibly leading to challenges in school and behavioral concerns. Children may also internalize the negative effects of abuse. The effects of domestic violence are not always easy to see. Some children experiencing domestic violence may try to hide it. Additional signs to watch for can include:
Low self-esteem
Nightmares
Apathy
Hypervigilance
Regression and withdrawal
Aggression and disobedience
Trouble concentrating
Anxiety disorder formation
Sleep difficulties
Bed-wetting
Stuttering
Thumb-sucking
Frequent crying
Experiences of domestic violence may also manifest as physical symptoms. For instance: Anxiety disorders may present in the form of diarrhea, nausea, or hives. Symptoms may also change as children grow. Adolescents who have experienced or witnessed domestic violence may exhibit such symptoms as:
Poor grades, numerous absences, or dropping out of school entirely
Eating disorders
Depression
Becoming abusive themselves, either to their peers or their parents
Substance use disorder
If you are struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at (800) 662-4357 to receive support and resources. Support is available 24/7.
Physical injuries sustained from standing up to their abuser
Running away from home or looking for excuses not to go home
Suicidal thoughts (If you or a loved one is experiencing suicidal thoughts, help is available. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 and can be reached by calling or texting 988, or by chatting with a representative.)
Symptoms of trauma
Engaging in risky behaviors
Getting in trouble with the law
Trouble making or keeping friends
Low self-esteem
The severity of a child’s symptoms can increase over time and might depend on the length of time the child has been exposed to abuse, the extent of the abuse and the age of the child. However, with the right approach, a child can begin to heal and recover from these symptoms.
Support for child survivors of domestic violence
Children deserve a home life that is safe and nurturing. Many may find that one of the best ways to support a child experiencing the effects of abuse is by helping to build their resilience. You can do this by helping foster a positive mindset, letting them know you’re there for them, giving them an outlet for their emotions and modeling healthy relationships for them.
Therapy can also be a healthy way for children to work through trauma or other effects of domestic violence. Counseling can help children process their feelings, develop tools to control their emotions and find healthy ways to cope with their memories.
Support for adult survivors of domestic violence
If you are in a situation where you are experiencing, or are a survivor of, domestic violence, help is available. The following resources can connect you with support and guidance.
National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233)
National Teen Dating Abuse Hotline (1-866-331-9474) or TTY (1-866-331-8453)
RAINN | National Sexual Assault Hotline (1-800-656-4673) Choose #1 to talk to a counselor
RAINN’s online chat
US Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women’s Health– Provides a list of resources for domestic violence based on where you live.
These resources can help you develop a plan for removing yourself from whatever situation you are in, and can give you tips on keeping yourself safe.
Telling someone what you’re going through can often be the first step toward getting help. You may consider contacting a trusted friend or family member who may be able to give you help in the form of a place to stay, financial support or advice.
Online therapy can support you
If you’re living with mental health challenges related to domestic violence or similar concerns, know that help can be made available. With an online therapy platform like BetterHelp, you can choose to participate in therapy anonymously, which can make it more comfortable if you are living with domestic violence.
You’ll also have the option of contacting your therapist outside of sessions; so, if you forgot to mention something during therapy or you have a question about trauma or abuse, you can send them a message, and they can respond when they’re able.
Is online therapy effective?
Studies suggest that online therapy can help individuals cope with the effects of domestic violence. In one study, researchers examined the effectiveness of online therapy for people who experienced post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression after surviving intimate partner violence.
After treatment, 41.7% of participants no longer fit the diagnostic criteria for PTSD.
The study also references and confirms the ability of online therapy to help many to overcome barriers like perceived stigma, which often prevents survivors of abuse from seeking help.
Takeaway
What are the effects of domestic violence and conflicts?
Domestic violence and conflict in the home have a significant impact on the family. Although outcomes often vary, instability and fear within the family unit are typical. Individuals may experience increased anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and an overall state of diminished mental health.
Children who experience or witness domestic violence may exhibit emotional and behavioral problems at school or in social situations. Children often experience depression, isolation, and anxiety. A wide swath of research suggests that children growing up in violent homes are at increased risk for developing problems during adolescence and adulthood, including incarceration, substance use disorders, and engaging in violent behavior themselves.
The effects of familial strife often spread to areas of life that aren't immediately obvious. For example, abuse can have complex, adverse spiritual effects on some individuals. This may create a sense of hopelessness or emptiness, and, in some cases, individuals end up feeling suicidal.
If you or a loved one are experiencing suicidal thoughts, reach out for help immediately. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
What are the five effects of violence?
The effects of violence are shared across many contexts. For example, community violence can produce psychological trauma in individuals that leads to violent behavior at home. On an individual level, five psychological effects of domestic violence may include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- PTSD
- Antisocial Behavior
- Withdrawal And Isolation
How does domestic violence affect the victim mentality?
"Victim mentality" can be a tricky concept within the context of domestic violence. Sometimes, abusers may accuse their partner of having a "victim mentality" to minimize their role in the abuse. In other cases, the abuser may exhibit traits of victim mentality that "justifies" their abusive behavior.
In any case, it's vital for people to understand that abuse survivors' experiences are very real and should always be taken seriously. No survivor should ever have to shoulder any of the blame for their situation because they have a "victim mentality."
That said, domestic violence and psychological manipulation typically go hand-in-hand. An abuser may break down a survivor's mental state to convince them that they're to blame for the abuse and are operating under a victim mentality mindset.
What are the five effects of abuse?
The ramifications of violence are far-reaching and may spread beyond the family unit to school, the workplace, and the community. At home, however, children are typically affected the most profoundly. When there is violence in the home, children may:
- Have greater difficulty controlling their emotions— leading to more intense feelings of pain, anger, and sadness. As a result, kids may have nightmares, difficulty sleeping, problems interacting with others, and disruptions in development.
- Have feelings of mistrust and fear towards others, creating serious interpersonal challenges that lead to withdrawal and isolation. Children from abusive homes may have increased difficulty establishing and maintaining healthy relationships into adulthood.
- Experience depression, panic attacks, and other psychological conditions due to the profound traumatic impact of violence.
- Be more likely to perpetrate interpersonal violence as adolescents and adults.
- Experience decreased brain functioning due to the common physical effects of abuse. For example, traumatic brain injury (TBI) in children due to involuntary shaking changes how the brain regulates mood, memory, and cognitive functioning.
What are the four different effects of physical abuse?
The impacts of physical abuse are complex and often long-term. Four different ways that physical abuse can affect individuals include:
1. Physical
When unaddressed, physical abuse can result in permanent damage in the form of lifelong health problems, chronic illness, or death. Indeed, 2021 data from the American Society for the Positive Care of Children (American SPCC) indicates that five children die every day from child abuse.
To avoid such outcomes, cases of physical abuse require swift intervention. Recognizing some of the signs of physical trauma can help individuals prevent permanent injuries and fatalities. If you suspect someone is being abused in the home, you might look for:
- Purple marks on the body from bruising.
- Neck sprain/Injury
- Cuts/Abrasions
- Bone Fractures/Breaks
- Bite Marks
- Lacerations
It's also prudent to note that abuse often results in psychological trauma with common physical symptoms such as trouble with the breath, muscle tension, fatigue, tremors, nausea, and heart palpitations.
2. Psychological
Abuse, particularly during childhood, can cause psychological trauma that individuals carry for an extended period or the rest of their lives. These often come in the form of mental illnesses such as PTSD, depression, severe anxiety, panic disorder, dissociative disorder, and personality disorders.
3. Social
Abuse can negatively impact a child's social development throughout adolescence and into adulthood. Many individuals with a history of abuse have attachment issues that make it difficult to form and maintain bonds with others. They might experience trust issues or self-esteem problems that cause social withdrawal and isolation.
4. Developmental
Physical abuse has far-reaching consequences on a child's development. It can stunt brain growth, creating problems with cognitive development, memory loss, attentional difficulties, and learning disorders.
What are the effects of abuse on the mind?
Child abuse and neglect can cause long-term impairment in brain functioning, emotional regulation, self-control, stress response, and memory.
What are the seven signs of emotional abuse?
Emotional abuse can manifest in various ways depending on time, place, and circumstances. While there isn't a fixed list of signs that universally define it, here are seven common indicators:
- Constant Criticism: An abuser may belittle their partner or make them feel inadequate about their actions, thoughts, or appearance. Emotional abusers may use their partner's vulnerabilities against them by targeting specific areas they feel most insecure about.
- Isolation: The abuser may isolate their partner from friends, families, or even activities they once enjoyed. The purpose of isolating is to make the partner feel dependent on their abuser for support and validation.
- Gaslighting: This refers to manipulating another's perception of reality, creating doubt about the individual's own memories, thoughts, or feelings. Gaslighting techniques are often used to make a partner feel "crazy" or confused about what's real.
- Control: An abuser often tries to control as many aspects of their partner's life as possible. This means restricting their independence and controlling their daily activities, actions, decisions, and finances. They'll also monitor the partner's movements and may use technology to track their whereabouts constantly.
- Placing Guilt And Blame: Emotional abusers shift the responsibility for their behavior to their partner to make them feel guilty about things that aren't their fault.
- Emotional Withdrawal: An emotional abuser might intentionally withdraw from their partner—ignoring them, withholding affection, or giving the "silent treatment" to create an atmosphere of uncertainty and tension.
- Intimidation And Threats: Verbal, physical, or emotionally threatening behavior is often used by emotional abusers to instill fear, and control a partner's actions.
What are the five signs of psychological abuse?
Psychological abuse is designed to cause emotional or mental harm to an individual with the aim of controlling them. It can take many forms but is often repetitive and can cause irreparable damage. Five signs of psychological abuse include:
- Embarrassing a partner in public or in front of friends, family, colleagues, and peers. An abuser may call them names or constantly correct what they say or do to make the partner look or feel foolish.
- Using things like race, religion, gender, sexuality, disability, or family to cause psychological distress about the things they can't change about themselves.
- Ignoring a partner, pretending they aren't there, or withholding affection.
- Gaslighting by saying or doing things that make the partner feel confused. An abuser may say things or move/change things, then deny it and claim they must be going crazy or their memory is failing.
- Threatening to harm the individual's pets, children, or other important people in a partner's life to frighten and control them.
What are the seven main categories of abuse?
The seven most commonly recognized categories of domestic abuse include physical, psychological, verbal, emotional, financial, sexual, and digital abuse/cyberbullying.
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