Many parents mistakenly believe that domestic violence between spouses will not affect their children as long as they do not physically assault them. In fact, children who witness their parents’ domestic violence, even if they are not personally injured, will suffer serious hidden psychological harm. This trauma is hidden and long-lasting, and will accompany their growth, affecting their personality and views on marriage and love.
Children who witness domestic violence for a long time often develop personality defects. Childhood spent in a fearful, repressed, and tense family environment can easily lead to feelings of inferiority, cowardice, sensitivity, suspicion, and a lack of security. It can also result in a solitary and introverted personality, which can easily lead to psychological problems such as anxiety and depression, affecting physical and mental health development.
At the same time, it will distort children’s views on marriage and relationships, as well as their interaction patterns. Long term witnessing of violent interactions can lead children to assume that intimate relationships should be like this. As they grow up, they may become accustomed to violent behavior or become extremely humble and fearful of intimate relationships, leading to issues such as marital and romantic fears, as well as emotional conflicts.
A harmonious family atmosphere is the cornerstone of a child’s growth. Parents should understand that domestic violence is never a matter between husband and wife, but a family problem that harms the entire family. Timely prevention of domestic violence and creation of a warm and peaceful family environment are necessary to safeguard children’s mental health and prevent the trauma of their upbringing from accompanying them throughout their lives.