Children and Teens

Children are overwhelmingly impacted by domestic violence. Witnessing abuse can make a child feel like it’s their fault or that they should have protected their parent. Kids who witness abuse exhibit higher levels of stress, anxiety and depression, and may experience symptoms like a decrease in appetite, headaches, nightmares, anger issues, crying and whining, etc.

Not only does witnessing abuse affect a child’s wellness, it compromises their future. Every year, approximately 15.5 million American children witness violence in the home, and two of three of those young witnesses will grow up to repeat those behaviors in their own relationships.

When kids stay in the safe house with their moms, we strive to provide them stability while working to address their trauma. Our Children’s Program offers necessary interventions along with programming that aims to break the cycle of abuse and promote healing. Families are offered counseling and art and music therapy, as well as group fun like craft activities, game nights, holiday cookie baking, and field trips.

Visit thehotline.org to learn more about supporting children who witness domestic violence.