Children who experience coercive control face an increased risk of developing a mental illness in adulthood. Women with childhood experiences of domestic violence showed the highest prevalence of PTSD, generalised anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder and were more likely to attempt suicide | AI News Digest
A recent study published in the British Journal of Psychiatry highlights the long-term mental health risks associated with childhood experiences of domestic violence (EDV). Children exposed to coercive control, intimidation, and property damage are significantly more likely to develop mental disorders such as PTSD, generalized anxiety disorder, and major depressive disorder in adulthood. Women, in particular, showed a higher prevalence of these conditions compared to men. The study emphasizes the need for targeted interventions and legal protections to address the impact of domestic violence on children. It calls for a shift in focus from solely physical violence to include non-physical forms of abuse, which can have equally damaging effects on mental health. The findings underscore the importance of recognizing children as victims of domestic violence and the necessity for trauma-informed support systems.
