10/14/2011

Domestic violence and childhood from a survivor

How does domestic violence effect children in the household. Beyond the Tears: A True Survivor's Story gives us a rare glimpse into the life of a child. Domestic violence robbed Lynn Tolson of her childhood. She could have chosen not to share her story with us. We would have missed the pain but also her joy in discovering that life is worth fighting for.

The number of children each year who are effected by domestic violence is shocking. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services estimates that as many as 10-20% of the children in this country are at risk for exposure.

As Lynn's blog can tell you the results are lifelong. Children who are exposed to domestic violence tend to have higher levels aggression than those who do not. The Alabama Coalition Against Domestic Violence says that children can act as a parent substitute, withdraw, self-abuse or display other symptoms.

Domestic violence is preventable and inexcusable.

Today's status update is on children and domestic violence. Why not Tweet it or post it to your Facebook status?

Get the facts about children and domestic violence from US Child Welfare http://1.usa.gov/owdDni  #dvam