Children & Young People
How abuse affects children ā and how adults can protect, support, and reduce long-term harm.
š§ Important: Children do not need to be directly harmed
to be deeply affected by abuse.
How Abuse Affects Children
Exposure to abuse is recognised as a form of harm in itself.
What children experience
- Living in constant tension
- Fear of sudden changes
- Hyper-vigilance
- Feeling responsible for peace
Why this happens
Childrenās nervous systems adapt quickly to stress, shaping emotional development.
Impact by Age
Early Years (0ā5)
- Sleep disturbance
- Clinginess
- Delayed development
Primary Age (6ā11)
- Concentration difficulties
- Physical complaints
- Over-responsibility
Adolescents (12ā18)
- Risk-taking or withdrawal
- Anger or numbness
- Unhealthy relationship patterns
Possible Signs
Emotional & behavioural signs
- Anxiety or aggression
- Regression
- People-pleasing
School & social signs
- Attendance changes
- Difficulty focusing
Why Children Often Donāt Tell
Common reasons
- Fear of consequences
- Protecting a parent
- Believing itās normal
What silence means
Silence is often a survival strategy ā not absence of harm.
When Behaviour Is Trauma
Misunderstood behaviours
- Defiance
- Withdrawal
- Over-compliance
Why punishment can harm
Punishment increases fear. Safety and consistency support recovery.
Protecting Children Safely
One consistent, safe adult can significantly reduce harm.
Protective actions
- Maintain routines
- Reduce exposure to conflict
- Provide calm reassurance
What to avoid
- Asking children to take sides
- Sharing adult fears
Teen Relationships & Boundaries
Common risks
- Jealousy normalised as love
- Digital monitoring
How adults can help
- Talk about healthy boundaries
- Model respect
Recovery & Healing
What recovery looks like
- Improved emotional regulation
- Confidence rebuilding
- Healthier relationships
What children need most
Safety, time, consistency, and reassurance.
Children & Safety Flash Cards
Children are affected by abuse whenā¦
They live with fear or control.
Support for children & families:
š NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000
š https://www.nspcc.org.uk
š https://www.gov.uk/guidance/domestic-abuse-how-to-get-help
š NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000
š https://www.nspcc.org.uk
š https://www.gov.uk/guidance/domestic-abuse-how-to-get-help
