By Fatmata Binta Bah
Domestic violence is a serious and pervasive issue that affects individuals across all demographics regardless of age, gender, socioeconomic status or cultural background.
Domestic Violence is any form of abusive behaviour in a relationship by one partner against the other, to gain and maintain control over another the intimate partner.
Domestic Violence range from different forms including physical, sexual, emotional, economic and psychological abusive. The impact of domestic violence can be profound and long lasting even if the children are not abused directly, witnessing domestic violence have a severe consequence on children upbringing by affecting their development, emotional well-being and future relationships.
Victims of domestic violence may suffer from physical injuries, mental health that probably leads to depression and negative decline in their quality of life, children who witness domestic violence is at risks as they suffer from emotional and behavioural problems, their cycle of violence can likely perpetuate across generations.
One key impact of domestic violence on children is Emotional and Psychological effect, children who are exposed to domestic violence often experience depression and feeling of hopelessness at such a tender age, children with depression may manifest differently than adult, they may seem unusually sad and irritated, they may loose interest in activities they use to do and enjoyed, they will become depress to the point that they loose focus and concentration even in school, and they prefer isolation.
Behavioural Issues is also key, they become aggressive, and always take the lead in bullying others and acting violently towards their peers. The trauma experienced in childhood can lead to long term mental disorder including chronic depression and disorder. Children who witness domestic violence may likely result to taking harmful substances such as drugs and alcohol as they grow older, in order to cope with the trauma.
Long Term Impact on Adult Life is also a crucial aspect, children who grow up in abusive environment are at a higher risk of becoming involved in abusive relationships as adults abusing their intimate partner.
The effect of domestic violence can extend into adulthood, affecting an individual’s ability to maintain stable employment, build healthy relationships. They may struggle with parenting, replicating abusive pattern on their children or being overprotective and anxious about their children safety.
These traumas can be passed down to future generations, affecting the well-being of their children’s children.
In conclusion, exposure to domestic violence can lead to range of negative outcomes, including depression, behavioural issues, academic struggles and more, the trauma can extend to adulthood and mental health.
Addressing domestic violence requires early intervention, support, and safe nurturing environment. It is very important for parents, caregivers and communities to provide the necessary support to help children heal and thrive the path to success by enabling them to reach their full potential and lead healthy productive lives.