Children Living with Domestic Violence : Towards a Framework for Assessment and Intervention

Domestic violence is a criminal problem, a social problem as well as a public health issue.

It also represents a violation of human rights and causes far reaching damage to children's lives and development.

This accessible book attempts to guide professionals on how to draw on the best of theory, research and practice wisdom and apply it in a coherent way.

It includes practice guidance within a procedural framework, questions to ask, information, checklists, and some pointers to other texts which contain greater detail in certain areas of the process.

The principal focus of the book and its assessment framework is on the children of female survivors of male domestic violence.

There is some attention to causal differences and assessment implications for violence between same sex couples.

Despite this focus, this book should have broad appeal - both in geographical terms, serving as a useful resource regardless of statute and procedural differences across countries; and across disciplines. It reflects the author's view that all assessments need to be multi-disciplinary in nature to stand any realistic chance of being informed and resourced, and that they also need to be evidence-based, requiring an integration of causal theories and professional skills.

It establishes that we must: Challenge myths surrounding domestic violence.

Develop a detailed understanding of the impact on the adult and child survivors of domestic violence.

Unite to produce a system of response that does not replicate their experiences and in fact facilitates their recovery from any trauma.

Produce local procedures, practice guidance and principles of good practice to guide consistent, effective interventions, enabling survivors to make their own life choices and be free from violence.

Empower the adult survivor, protect the children and challenge the perpetrator.

Import good practice from associated fields.