Witnessing and experiencing abuse has many negative effects on children, including:

Behavioral:

  • Inability to express, share or process their feelings
  • Unexplained, abrupt changes in behavior
  • Aggressive to self or others

Relationships:

  • Difficulties in peer and adult relationships
  • Sibling rivalry 

Self-Image:

  • Poor Social Skills 
  • Low Self-Esteem
  • Lack of Self-Confidence
  • Powerlessness and Shame
  • Hopelessness and Helplessness