Domestic Violence

Almost five children die every day as a result of child abuse stemming from domestic violence in the home. Who is the blame for these alarming numbers; is it the parent who is often the abuser or could it be child protective services who do not respond in a timely manner.

Most everyone would say that children are precious and should be protected. Generally, we consider the home a place of safety and security, but behind many closed doors in America there is an element of violence that effects the biggest to the smallest. According to the American Psychological Association, 3 million children are exposed to physical and verbal spousal abuse annually. We must agree that, "Families under stress produce children under stress." Yes, children can be stressed and experience great anxiety from being in an environment where this is discord in the home. So what do we do to create a more harmonious environment for children?

Ladies and gentleman, I would like to persuade you to help children of domestic violence. Because children often times do not know how to advocate for themselves they need someone who is willing to be their voice. The only way to accomplish this is through understanding the dynamics of domestic violence. In a home where domestic violence is present, if a spouse experiences physical abuse, the more likely it is for a child to be abused. And daughters of abused women are six times more likely to be sexually abused.

The impact of such violence takes a great toll on the child in many areas. Sadly, children who are exposed to family violence are more likely to develop social, emotional, psychological and behavioral problems which can prohibit them from moving forward successfully in life. Research indicates that children who witness domestic violence show more anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, anger and temperament problems than those who come from a seemingly normal home. The trauma they experience as a child tends to show up in their adulthood years. Just imagine having a child who is withdrawn, does not like to play with others, and chooses to remain in their room instead of being outside running around.

Domestic violence is the greatest public health issue confronting women and children in the United States today. The American Medical Association indicates that the total annual health care cost of domestic violence is estimated at over 40 million dollars. Is there no way to reduce this cost? Efforts have been made through awareness, but still this is not enough. In 1984 Congress passed the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act, which is designed to help states in their efforts to increase public awareness about domestic violence. This was a great initiative, but more attention is needed in the matter. In that state laws vary from one place to another, consistent efforts are needed to ensure all appropriate areas are addressed. Cross-training is one of the most commonly implemented strategies

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