Children are very upset when they see one of their parents abusing or attacking the other. They often show signs of great distress. Younger children may become anxious, complain of tummy-aches or start to wet their bed. They may find it difficult to sleep, have temper tantrums and start to behave as if they were much younger than they are. Older children react differently.
Boys seem to express their distress much more outwardly.
They may become aggressive and disobedient. Sometimes they start to use violence to try and solve problems, as if they have learnt to do this from the way that adults behave in their family. Older boys may play truant and may start to use alcohol or drugs. Girls are more likely to keep their distress inside. They may withdraw from other people and become anxious or depressed.