ABSTRACT
It has been estimated that 3 to 10 million children are exposed to domestic violence between their parents each year. Research has clearly shown that children who live in homes where domestic violence exists are at risk for a wide variety of problems. The objectives of this pilot program were: (1) to provide treatment to children who have been exposed to domestic violence; (2) to provide treatment to their parents; (3) to measure the effectiveness of that treatment; and (4) to develop interagency treatment protocols that other agencies could replicate. This study supports the importance of treatment for children who experience family violence and their parent(s). Following treatment, children exposed to domestic violence demonstrated a decrease in behavior problems, an increase in their abilities to recognize and discuss abuse, and an ability to utilize a safety plan. Parents reported less stress following treatment.
