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The Consequences of Witnessing Family Violence on Children and Implications for Family Counselors

University at Buffalo–State University of New York

Although a large number of children are directly abused, an even larger number may indirectly experience the effects of abuse as witnesses of family violence. However, the effects on children who witness such violence have long been unaddressed, although a growing body of research indicates that these children are affected in various domains, including their physical or biological functioning, behavior, emotions, cognitive development, and social adjustment. This article summarizes some of the recent literature regarding the effects of witnessing family violence on children's development, addresses the clinical implications of these effects, and offers several recommendations for family counselors who work with children affected by violence within the family.

Key Words: witnessing family violence • child maltreatment • child development • family counseling

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