Web resource:	https://publications.gc.ca/Collection-R/Statcan/85-002-XIE/0060185-002-XIE.pdf
Type:	Journal Article
Title:	Children witnessing family violence
Other Titles:	Juristat
Authors:	Johnson, Holly Dauvergne, Mia
Keywords:	Statistics;Impact on children and young people;Parenting
Year:	2001
Publisher:	Statistics Canada, Canadian Centre for Justice Statistics
Citation:	21 (6), June 2001
Notes:	General Overview: This statistical report examines three Canadian surveys and highlights findings regarding the number of children witnessing spousal violence, the characteristics of households where children witness spousal violence and the effect of witnessing violence on the children. Discussion: The report examines the 1999 General Social Survey on Victimization (GSS, a random sample of men and women), the 1993 Violence Against Women Survey (VAWS, a random sample of women) and the National Longitudinal Survey of Children and Youth (NLSCY) to estimate the number of children in Canada who have witnessed violence in their homes in recent years. They found that in about 37 – 39% of households with spousal violence, children witnessed the violence. About 70% of spousal violence witnessed by children was directed against the mother, and female victims were more likely to fear for their lives or be physically injured than male victims. In the NLSCY, parents reported that 8% of children witnessed violence in the home. Older children, children with older parents, children in lower socioeconomic families and children in blended, step or single parent homes were more likely to witness violence. For male perpetrators, drinking alcohol meant that children were more likely to witness violence. The NLSCY asked parents about parenting styles. The authors report that children who witness physical fighting between adults and teenagers in their homes are more likely to have lower levels of positive, effective or rational interactions with their parents than children from non-violent homes. They were also more likely to come from poorly functioning families and families where parents have depressive symptoms. Children who witness violence are more likely to exhibit behavioural difficulties, particularly aggression and delinquent acts against property. Where children witness spousal violence, the victim is more likely to seek help from the police or social services. During the year ending 31 March 2000, 57 182 women with 39 177 children were admitted to 448 shelters in Canada.
URI:	https://anrows.intersearch.com.au/anrowsjspui/handle/1/13846
ISSN:	0715271X
Appears in Collections:	Journal Articles

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