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Review
. 2016 Jan;8(1):43-57.
doi: 10.5249/jivr.v8i1.663.

Developmental variations in the impact of intimate partner violence exposure during childhood

Kathryn H Howell  1 , Sarah E Barnes, Laura E Miller, Sandra A Graham-Bermann
Affiliations
Review

Developmental variations in the impact of intimate partner violence exposure during childhood

Kathryn H Howell et al. J Inj Violence Res. 2016 Jan.

Abstract

Background: Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a pervasive problem impacting individuals around the globe. The consequences of IPV extend beyond the adults in the relationship, as children witness a significant proportion of such violence. Exposure to IPV during childhood has devastating effects across multiple domains of functioning.

Methods: This article reviews empirical studies of the effects of exposure to IPV by developmental stage.

Results: The psychological, social, physical, and cognitive consequences of witnessing IPV are examined across development; from the impact of prenatal exposure to effects in infancy and toddlerhood, the preschool years, school-aged children, and adolescence.

Conclusions: The review concludes by providing suggestions for future research based on the identified developmental variations, recommendations for developmentally-sensitive interventions for children who have witnessed IPV, and directions for policy to address the issue of violence exposure early in the lives of children.

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