“caught in the middle” exploring children and young people's experience of domestic violence

This document seeks to explore children's experiences of domestic violence and the effects such violence may have on their lives, both in the short term and in the long term. It draws on the conclusions of various studies in this area which have been carried out in America and the United Kingdom. It aims to raise awareness of the complexity of this issue and to highlight the importance of support for both women and children who may be survivors of domestic violence. The document highlights a number of issues, namely How children and young people may experience domestic violence; Identification of links between domestic violence and child abuse; The impact domestic violence may have on mothering; The effects domestic violence may have on children and young people's lives; The legitimacy of the cycle of violence theory; Issues to be considered when assessing the possible impact of domestic violence on children and young people.