Children can have unique and deeply personal experiences when it comes to difficult or complex family relationships, including family violence. They may directly experience physical, sexual, psychological, or financial abuse. They can also be subjected to threatening and coercive behavior. Importantly, even if your children witness or are exposed to violence directed at you, this too is considered family violence.
Family violence between parents is profoundly traumatic for children. Often, kids are aware of what’s happening. Even if they don’t directly see, hear, or experience the violence, the knowledge that their parent is being hurt can be deeply distressing and traumatic.
If you find yourself in a difficult and untenable situation, seeking support for safety planning and exploring your options is essential. For your children, the Kids Helpline is a valuable resource. Their contact number is 1800 55 1800, and they offer free, confidential 24/7 phone and online counseling for young people aged 5 to 25 years.
Discussing family violence with your children is never easy. But if they are experiencing or witnessing violence (even indirectly), it’s important to give them a space to talk about it.
Ensure your children have access to professional support, such as a counselor or psychologist. At the very least, provide them with a trusted extended family member, mentor, or friend they can confide in.
Here are some helpful statements to use when talking to your kids about family violence:
Even if your parents are arguing about you, or you think it’s because you didn’t clean your room or made a mistake, it’s never your fault.
Grown-ups have many ways to solve their problems, and violence or abuse should never be one of them.
Don’t try to get in the middle of a fight. The best thing to do is to call someone for help.
It’s okay to love a parent who is abusive but dislike their behavior. It’s also normal to feel a mix of different emotions at once.
Helping your children manage difficult relationship situations, including family violence, is crucial for their emotional and physical well-being. If you’re worried about how these challenges may be affecting your children or need guidance on ensuring their safety and support, O’Loan Family Law is here to assist.
We offer compassionate, effective guidance to help families navigate complex situations and prioritize their children’s well-being. Book a free consultation with us today, and let’s work together to support your family through this challenging time.
About The Author - Bron O'Loan
Bron O’Loan is an Accredited Specialist in Family Law and Principal Director of O’Loan Family Law in Sydney. Admitted to practise in 2015, she has over 12 years of exclusive family law experience advising on separation, parenting disputes and complex property settlements. Bron holds a Master of Applied Law (Family Law) and is admitted to the Supreme Court of NSW and the High Court of Australia, providing strategic, commercially aware advice tailored to each family’s circumstances. |
*This post is an overview only and should not be considered as legal advice. If there are any matters that you would like us to advise you on, then please contact us.
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