Do you know what Domestic Abuse is?
Many practitioners working in the childcare industry often forget about Domestic abuse when referring to the different types of abuse. It can also be known as Domestic Violence This abuse is any type of;
- controlling
- bullying
- threatening or violent behaviour e.g., pushing or shoving
However it is not just physical violence, it can also be emotional, physical, sexual, financial or psychological abuse. It is important that early years practitioners are fully aware of this type of abuse so that they can keep a lookout for the signs and symptoms.
If children witness domestic abuse this can effect them long term and short term, therefore it is early years practitioners responsibility to raise concerns if they feel children are witnessing this. Areas that it can effect are cognitive emotional and behavioural development.
Signs and symptoms of domestic abuse
- Children become aggressive towards themselves and their peers
- Display inappropriate behaviour
- Become withdrawn and isolate themselves from others
- Become anxious
- Fall behind at school
- Clingy towards familiar people
- Wetting the bed
Children may also display these signs and symptoms for other reasons, therefore it is important to remember this.When noticing any of this signs and symptoms, follow your safeguarding procedures in your setting.