Domestic violence exposure is harmful to children

There is a lot at stake during a child custody dispute. Depending on the outcome of a case, a parent’s relationship with their child can be affected for years to come, and the child’s wellbeing could be put at risk. Parental substance abuse, untreated mental health conditions, and financial instability can all have a profound impact on a child. This is why a parent needs to be prepared to present compelling evidence to support their position on child custody and visitation. This could potentially include evidence pertaining to domestic violence.

Effects of domestic violence exposure

Far too many children are exposed to domestic violence, and the ramifications can be quite severe. Perhaps the biggest consequence of domestic violence exposure is an increased risk of child abuse. In fact, studies have shown that children who live in homes where partners engage in domestic violence are 15 times more likely to be exposed to physical abuse than average children.

However, this is just the beginning when it comes to the effects of domestic violence exposure. Here are some other ways that children can be negatively impacted:

• Fear of abandonment
• Fear of being physically harmed
• Excessive sadness
• Extreme worry
• A sense of guilt
• Emotional distancing
• An inability to appropriately deal with frustration
• Poor school performance
• Habitual lying
• Regression in toilet training
• Development of aggressive behaviors

Do what you can to protect your child

If you believe your child is being exposed to domestic violence in their other parent’s home, it is important to take action to keep your child safe. This may mean pursuing a child custody or visitation modification. To successfully do so, you will need evidence to support your position. This evidence may come in the form of police reports, criminal records, witness accounts, and assessments from mental health professionals. If you would like to learn more about what you can do to build your child custody case, contact Kristopher K. Greenwood & Associates at (801) 475-8800 to consult with an experienced family law attorney.