They may:
- feel scared, confused, and guilty believing that arguments and abuse is taking place because of them
- be destructive towards their toys and other property
- be tearful
- display anger and become violent towards their family members and friends
- become withdrawn, lose their self confidence and their self esteem
- lose their concentration at school, have poor levels of achievement and be seen to display/express difficult behaviour
- refuse to go to school because they want to “keep an eye on” what is happening at home. This is because they feel a responsibility to protect the parent who is being abused
- isolate themselves from friends because they are trying to protect the ‘secrets’ at home
- be harmed whilst trying to protect another family member
and in some cases may:
- develop stress-related illnesses, such as bed wetting, skin disorders and eating problems
- turn to drugs or alcohol as a way of escaping their feelings
- self harm such as cutting, burning themselves and pulling their hair out
- run away from home
- commit or attempt to commit suicide.
Last updated: 23/07/2024 13:20
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