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Journals > Journal: Domestic Violence and Children > Article: Prevalence and Effects of Child Exposure to Domestic Violence

Journal Issue: Domestic Violence and Children Volume 9 Number 3 Winter 1999

Conclusion

Given the early stages of investigation of the prevalence and effects of child exposure to domestic violence, it is not surprising that there are many gaps in the knowledge base and shortcomings in the research methods. One promising research approach involves getting as "close" as possible to the incident of violence through genuine partnerships between researchers and the professionals charged with intervening when violence has occurred—that is, law enforcement personnel, domestic violence program staff, and child protective services workers. Furthermore, the methodologies of epidemiology and developmental psychopathology have much to contribute to efforts to expand the knowledge base. These perspectives provide rigorous guidelines for the methodology of future studies, while emphasizing the importance of studying children within the context of their life situations and with sensitivity to their developmental changes. These research efforts are essential in order for all child victims of domestic violence to benefit—those currently identified by service agencies and other, yet-to-be-identified children.

Contents
• Summary
• Introduction
• Defining Domestic Violence and Children's Exposure to Domestic Violence
• Research on Prevalence of Child Exposure to Domestic Violence
• Research on the Effects of Domestic Violence on Children
• Building Research Capacity
• Conclusion
• Endnotes