The Impact of Violence on Children

What Did They Hear? What did they see?

The Impact of Violence on Children

by: Kelly Lenz, M.S., A.T.R., Project Administrator, Peoria’s Children

The opportunity for children to be exposed to violence is great in today’s society.   Exposure to violence can happen in many shapes and sizes. Violence does not discriminate. Violence happens every day to all types of people young and old.  Violence exposure can come from direct contact such as child abuse, school violence such as bullying or neglect or through indirect contact such as witnessing domestic violence, family discord,  community violence and media violence.   No matter how a child is exposed to violence, the outcome of exposure can negatively impact children in more ways than adults may think.   Even very subtle forms of violence can have a lasting impact on children including changes in their behavior.

Often exposure to violence can create trauma which is defined as “a normal response to an extreme event or events”.   The effects of violence exposure can be difficult for children to deal with on their own and can leave them feeling overwhelmed and confused.  Young children do not have the ability to tell adults how they feel and often they express themselves through their actions.  Sometimes children who have heard, seen, or experienced violence show signs of being “S.C.A.R.E.D.”  The following signs may be an indication that a child has been exposed to violence:

 

S		Sudden changes in sleep habits (bed-wetting, nightmares, will not sleep alone, etc.)
C		Crying or whining frequently, clingy behavior, inability to concentrate
A		Afraid of things he/she has never feared before
R		Refuses activities once enjoyed (such as playing with friends, participating in sports, etc.)
E		Easily startled or always on guard
D		Displays disruptive, violent, bullying or aggressive behaviors (angry outbursts)

 

In addition, young children who have experienced violence may regress in a skill already learned. For example, a child who is potty trained is now having multiple accidents.  Children often will reenact what they have seen or heard in their play and/or art work.  It is important for parents and care givers to pay close attention to potential signs that a child has been exposed to violence and seek professional help when necessary.

 

Peoria’s Children, A Safe from the Start Program, offers services for Peoria County families with children ages 0-5 who have experienced violence.  Services provided by Peoria’s Children    include assessment, case management, therapeutic services, and referral.  All services are free and confidential.  If you have questions or concerns please call Peoria’s Children at 309-686-5229

 

Source: Illinois Violence Prevention Authority, Keeping Kids... Safe from the Start, A Guide for Parents and Caregiver