What children exposed to intimate partner violence need to heal

Abstract

Children who are exposed to intimate partner violence (IPV) experience many negative effects linked to their experience with violence. Although there are a lot of interventions to help assist children recover from the traumatic events of IPV, very few are evaluated for their effectiveness. Through research and evaluated interventions, including a community-based program and the Preschool Kids Club (PKC) the characteristics that are important in creating a successful invention program are investigated. Characteristics include creating resiliency, choosing educational topics, important skills to build, types of therapy, and treatment of the mother. It is discovered that taking a holistic approach is best for impacting change in both the child effected by exposure to IPV and the mother who experienced IPV.