Date of Defense
4-18-2025
Date of Graduation
4-2025
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
Gary Bischof
Second Advisor
Angel L Gullon-Rivera
Abstract
This literature review explores the significant impacts that witnessing intimate partner violence (IPV) has on elementary-aged children and presents evidence-based counseling interventions to support their healing. Children are not always direct victims of intimate partner violence (IPV). However, simply witnessing intimate partner violence (IPV) in the home has significant impacts on children, such as emotionally, physically, cognitively, and behaviorally. This literature review highlights the significant impacts of intimate partner violence (IPV) on children’s mental health, including risk of anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and PTSD symptoms. Witnessing intimate partner violence also impacts the physical health of children, including risk for sleep disturbances and cardiovascular reactivity.
This literature review also explores the developmental impacts, such as language delays. Witnessing intimate partner violence (IPV) also impacts children cognitively, which can include lower IQ, impaired memory, and unhealthy beliefs about violence. Behavioral outcomes of children who witness intimate partner violence are also explored in this literature review. Some of these outcomes include aggression, delinquency, and future perpetration of violence. Children who witness intimate partner violence (IPV) will also struggle socially, resulting in fewer friendships and peer conflict. Academic struggles, such as lower test scores, will also be explored in this literature review.
In response to these negative impacts, this literature review offers evidence-based counseling interventions. Examples of these interventions include trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), group-based programs such as Kids’ Club, play therapy, and art therapy. It is also important for children who witness intimate partner violence (IPV) to be supported and provided with strong relationships, especially with non-offending parents. These interventions help children who witness intimate partner violence (IPV) process their traumatic experiences, openly express their emotions, and work towards healing and resilience.
Overall, this literature review illustrates the importance of early intervention and evidence-based counseling interventions for children who are exposed to intimate partner violence (IPV). It is important to understand the significant impacts of intimate partner violence (IPV) on elementary-aged children as well as the implementation of evidence-based counseling interventions. By understanding the true impacts, children affected by intimate partner violence (IPV) can experience long-term resilience and healing.
Recommended Citation
Essington, Makayla, "Impact of Witnessing Intimate Partner Violence for Elementary Age Children: Counseling Recommendations" (2025). Honors Theses. 3960.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/honors_theses/3960
Access Setting
Honors Thesis-Open Access
Presentation