Consequences of Intimate Partner Violence on Child Witnesses: a Systematic Review of the Literature

Problem: Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a serious social problem that affects all members of a household. Approximately 22% of violent crimes perpetrated against women and 3% against men are related to IPV, and often children witness these crimes. This paper addresses the evidence related to the short- and long-term consequences on the physical, psychosocial, and emotional status of child witnesses.

Methods: A systemic review and analysis of the literature was performed with 24 articles from 2000 to 2010 that were identified through electronic search strategies.

Findings: Differences were found in the behaviors of children who witness and do not witness IPV that have short- and long-term consequences and affect relationships with same-sex peers, dating partners, and future partners with a clear pattern of dose-response.

Conclusions: Healthcare providers can implement theoretically driven, gender and culturally appropriate interventions for children with a history of IPV exposure with outcomes that positively affect the lives of children.