Children in violent homes are at risk for emotional and developmental problems; also seeing or hearing violence in the home hurts children in many ways.  They don't have to be physically abused to feel the pain of violence.  The following are some warning signs to watch for in all ages of children.

FOR ALL AGES:

• Unusual or unexplained injuries
  

• Chronic illnesses, headaches or stomachaches
  

• Signs of neglect, such as poor hygiene or dirty clothing
  

• Withdrawal (playing alone,  having no friends)
  

• Depression or low self-esteem
  

• Use of violence to solve conflict
  

• Trouble falling or staying asleep, or sleeping during school
  

• Flashbacks or nightmares
  

• Difficulty expressing emotions other than anger
  

• School problems including lengthy absences
  

• Acting overly responsible- as if the child is the "adult of the       family"
  

MALE/FEMALE WARNING SIGNS:

• Girls may act passively and withdraw from others
  

• Boys may act aggressively and lash out at others
  

LONG TERM EFFECTS:

Children who live in violent homes, may grow up to become:

• Victims of more abuse
  

• Abusers--or they may commit other violent crimes
  

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Check out the National Committee to Prevent Child Abuse Page