What Are the Consequences of Family Violence?
Family violence has devastating consequences for victims. For individuals who experience family violence, the violence can have psychological, physical, behavioural, academic, sexual, interpersonal, self-perceptual or spiritual consequences.[52] Depending on the nature, extent and duration of the abuse, the effects may appear immediately, or they may emerge over time. Often, the effects of family violence on an individual are not recognized or understood by others, adding to the isolation experienced by those who are abused. In some cases, consequences can be fatal. Abuse can also be devastating for those who are not the intended target. For example, children who are exposed to violence in their homes may experience serious effects that threaten their health, safety, behaviour, emotional and social development, and educational progress.[53] For more information about the consequences for victims, please refer to the other overview papers in this series.
