Children Living with Domestic Violence
Towards a Framework for Assessment and Intervention

Domestic violence is a criminal problem, a social problem and a public health issue. It also represents a violation of human rights and causes far reaching damage to children's lives and development. This book attempts to guide professionals on how to drawn on the best of theory, research and practice and apply it in a coherent way.

It reflects the author's view that all assessments need to be multi-disciplinary in nature to stand any realistic chance of being informed and resourced, and that they also need to be evidence-based, requiring an integration of causal theories and professional skills. It establishes that we must: Challenge myths surrounding domestic violence. Develop a detailed understanding of the impact on the adult and child survivors of domestic violence. Unite to produce a system of response that does not replicate their experiences and in fact facilitates their recovery from any trauma. Produce local procedures, practice guidance and principles of good practice to guide consistent, effective interventions, enabling survivors to make their own life choices and be free from violence. Empower the adult survivor, protect the children and challenge the perpetrator. Import good practice from associated fields.

Introduction. Contextualizing domestic violence. How marital conflict and violence affects children: theory, research and future directions by Dr Gordon T Harold and Emma L Howarth, University of Cardiff. Parenting and domestic violence. Towards a framework for assessment and intervention. Contact in domestic violence cases. Outcome measurements. Where next? References and resources.