How Domestic Violence Affects Our Children
Breaking the Cycle: Understanding How Domestic Violence Affects Our Children
When we talk about domestic violence, we often focus on adult survivors, but there's another group of survivors who need our attention and support: our children. At Lafayette House, we've witnessed how domestic violence ripples through families, affecting not just parents but creating lasting impacts on the youngest members of our community.
Understanding the Scope
The reality of how domestic violence affects children is sobering but important to understand. Court records show that children witness violence in nearly one in four (22%) intimate partner violence cases. Research has revealed that 44% of children have been exposed to their mother's intimate partner victimization. These statistics aren't just numbers; they represent real children in our community who need support and protection.
The Lasting Impact
When children grow up in homes where violence occurs, the effects can echo through generations in ways that demand our immediate attention and action. Research has revealed deeply concerning patterns: children exposed to violence in their homes are fifteen times more likely to experience physical or sexual assault compared to the national average. Boys who witness domestic violence are ten times more likely to engage in abusive behavior in their adult relationships. Additionally, children who experience abuse face nine times the risk of becoming involved in criminal activities later in life.
However, understanding these statistics isn't about predicting inevitable negative outcomes – it's about recognizing the critical importance of early intervention and support. At Lafayette House, we see these numbers as a call to action, reinforcing why our work with children and families is so vital for breaking intergenerational cycles of violence. We believe that with proper support and intervention, children can heal from trauma and develop healthy relationship patterns that will carry forward into their adult lives.
Creating Safe Spaces at Lafayette House
At Lafayette House, we understand that healing requires a safe environment first and foremost. That's why we've created spaces where entire families can find refuge and begin their journey toward healing. Our emergency shelter welcomes parents and children, providing not just a safe place to stay, but comprehensive support services at no cost.
Breaking Patterns Through Understanding
One of the most powerful tools we have in breaking the cycle of domestic violence is understanding.
Through our family services, we help parents and children:
Understand how violence has affected their family relationships Learn healthy ways to communicate and express emotions Develop strong bonds through positive interactions Build confidence and trust in themselves and others Create new patterns for future relationships
The Power of Early Intervention
We know that early support makes a tremendous difference. Through our prevention and intervention programs, we work with families to create new patterns of interaction, helping parents and children develop healthy relationship skills that can last a lifetime.
Hope for the Future
At Lafayette House, we've witnessed countless families transform their lives. One parent recently shared, "Lafayette House made me aware of how my children and I needed to heal. It wasn't just about the physical side – they helped us understand all the little things that needed attention too."
Your Next Steps
If you're concerned about how domestic violence might be affecting your children, know that help is available right now. All of Lafayette House's services are completely free and include:
Immediate safe shelter for you and your children. Professional counseling for both parents and children. Support groups where you can connect with others who understand Legal advocacy to help protect your family's rights. Educational support and Transportation assistance.
Our doors are open 24/7. Your children's future can be different, and we're here to help you create that change.
A Future of Possibility
Every family's story is unique, and at Lafayette House, we honor that uniqueness while providing the support needed to write new chapters. Whether you're seeking immediate safety or looking for ways to help your children heal from past experiences, we're here to walk alongside you on that journey. Together, we can break the cycle of violence and create a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive in a safe, nurturing environment.
Contact Information:
Crisis Line: 1 (800) 416-1772
Main Office: 1 (417) 782-1772
Main Office Address: 1809 S Connor Ave. Joplin, Missouri 64804
Neosho Office: 417-451-6106
Neosho Office: 118 W. Spring St., Neosho, MO, 64850
Website: https://lafayettehouse.org/
If you're ready to take the first step toward a safer future for your family, call us today. All services are free, confidential, and available 24/7.
