Häusliche Gewalt gegen Kinder: Auswirkungen, Prävention und Unterstützung

Domestic violence against children is a serious problem that affects millions of children worldwide. The effects of violence on children can be profound and have long -term negative effects on their physical, mental and social development. In this article, the effects of violence on children are examined, the prevention of violence in families and the available resources to support children who have experienced violence. 

Effects of violence on children

Children who are exposed to domestic violence have a higher risk of a variety of problems. Research show that the use of physical punishment by parents is associated with many negative social effects, such as aggression, behavioral problems at school, lack of acceptance due to the same age, crime and delinquency. The cognitive and intellectual development of children is also affected by the use of physical punishment. Physical punishment is associated with uncertain binding and poorer relationships between children and parents as well as a variety of mental problems, such as anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts.

Prevention of violence in families

The promotion of non -violent discipline in the family is an important step to prevent violence against children. Parents and supervisors can use positive reinforcements such as praise and rewards to promote good behavior. You can also set up clear rules and expectations for behavior and use logical consequences in the event of regulatory violations. It is important to communicate with children in a calm and respectful way and to live non -violent conflict resolution skills. Parents can also seek resources and support for community organizations or experts if they need help to deal with your child's behavior.

Available resources to support children

There are many resources available for children who have experienced violence or abuse. This includes advisory services, support groups and hotlines that offer crisis intervention and transfers to local resources. In some cases, legal support can also be available to help children and their families navigate the legal system. It is important that children who have experienced violence or abuse receive adequate care and support to help them deal with their experiences.

Situation in countries of the roof area

The situation of domestic violence against children varies in different countries. Unfortunately, violence in Swiss families is not a relic of past times, but still sad reality. Almost half of the parents surveyed in Switzerland use educational methods that can be classified as physical or psychological violence, according to a survey by the University of Freiburg. Almost 40 percent of parents have already applied a body penalty against their child, while almost every sixth regularly uses psychological violence. It is worrying that mental violence is often considered legitimate: a third of the respondents consider it acceptable to ignore the child, while almost 40 percent consider crying or roaring the child permissible. In the case of harder physical punishments, mothers and fathers agree that they should not be allowed. 

In Germany, around 31% of the respondents reported in a study from 2017 on moderate to serious abuse and negligence experiences in childhood. In Austria, much less parents raise violence compared to the past decades. Thanks to the newer values ​​and laws across Europe, 30% of Austrians now raise their children without body penalty.

Situation in Romania

Although domestic violence in Romania has been prohibited by law since 2004, it remains a major problem. Physical violence against children is still widespread, 46% of the children in 2021 stated that they were beaten by their parents, 5% of teachers as discipline measures. 20% of parents still consider physical punishment to be appropriate. School closings and social isolation during pandemic have meant that children are at a higher risk of becoming victims of abuse and neglect. However, it is difficult to maintain precise statistics on the frequency of domestic violence against children in Romania, since many cases are not reported.

Conclusion

Overall, domestic violence against children is a serious problem in many countries, and it is important that governments take measures to help children are or could be victims of such violent acts. This can include the provision of protection and support measures for children and families as well as the awareness of the public for the topic. 

Sources

Written by Mara Schär

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