They may feel guilty and believe that the violence will not occur if they are well behaved. Trying to diffuse family tension to avoid violence. Children may attempt to manipulate their parents' behaviors, feelings and actions to stop the violence. They may draw attention to themselves or refocus the abuser's attention. Trying to intervene during violent outbursts on their mother's behalf.
Children frequently try to protect their mother from the violence.
Becoming passive and withdrawn. When children learn that they cannot control the violence in their families, they may withdraw to protect themselves. They are often frightened to see the people who they love the most being abusive and being hurt. Learning to use violence to control others. Children from violent homes often bully their friends, siblings or mothers.