Many develop serious physical, mental and emotional problems. Without treatment, the effects can last a lifetime. Children from violent homes may grow up to be the next generation of adult abusers and victims. Often children are the intended victim of one or both parents. Their parents' moods can change instantly from loving to enraged.
Children often receive mixed messages.
Often an abusive parent shuts off the family from the outside world, and the children may withdraw from their friends and other adults as well. Children may blame themselves for the violence but feel powerless to prevent, stop or escape from it. But they may also resent him or her for not stopping the abuse. Other times they may hope he or she goes away or dies. Positive influences in a child's life can help him or her overcome the negative ones.