When family violence happens, the impact is felt by everybody at home - by the victim, by the family member who witnessed it, including children.

Victims

The consequences of family violence are mainly felt by the victims who are the targets of the abuse. The dangers to them are clear and often visible.

Victims are often isolated and so it is difficult for them to get outside help. Often they depend on the abuser financially, and emotionally. They tend to live in fear and dare not break away from the violence.

As a result, they feel helpless, confused, anxious and have low self-esteem. Sometimes, thoughts of suicide do cross their minds.

In severe cases, victims get badly injured, and even end up losing their lives.

Children

Children are often witnesses to family violence. What they have seen and heard leaves a strong impact on them.

Children witnessing violence may suffer from undesirable psychological effects such as anxiety, fear, depression, guilt, low self esteem, as well as develop delinquent behaviour.

They may be intimidated by the experience and become withdrawn, timid and shy. Or, they may learn the violent behaviour and display aggression when relating with their siblings, friends and show cruelty to pets.

They may also perform poorly in school.