The impact of domestic violence on children : behavioural and emotional perspectives

Abstract

Family Violence has only recently started to be studied in depth in Western countries. The consequences it has left on the victims have now started to emerge. In Malta too, this negative social behaviour has now come out in the open and it is being openly discussed. The Family is a vital cell. The home environment and the type of family relationship shape the children's development and personality. Indeed, personality development - including intellectual, cognitive, social and emotional development is by large influenced by our childhood experiences. Unfortunately, for some children the family fails to provide a protective and nurturing environment. The parents' inappropriate violent behaviour coupled with, sometimes, their inability to cope effectively with their parental role become incumbent on the children. A sense of fear and anxiety dominates the home environment. If left untreated such a strain can leave an indelible scar on the children's development and their personality.