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Point of Contact: History of Family and Domestic Violence on Children - Book 5
As Book 5 of the Point of Contact training resource series developed under an Australian Government Initiative, this document examines the historical context and evolving understanding of how family and domestic violence affects children. It traces how children’s experiences of violence were historically minimized or framed solely as “witnessing,” and maps the shift in research, policy, and practice toward recognizing children as direct victims who suffer distinct and lasting harm. The resource reviews evidence on the developmental, neurological, behavioral, and relational impacts of exposure to violence across childhood stages, and discusses the long-term consequences including intergenerational trauma and increased risk of future victimization or perpetration. It also covers how institutional responses have changed over time, from child welfare and justice systems that once overlooked children’s safety in domestic violence cases to contemporary frameworks that center child wellbeing and safety. Designed as a training module, it includes research summaries, case reflections, and discussion prompts to help practitioners understand the cumulative effects of violence and the importance of early, child-aware intervention. Intended for frontline workers, child protection practitioners, educators, health professionals, and policymakers, this book provides the historical and evidence-based foundation for why current practice must treat children as primary clients in family and domestic violence responses across Australia.
| KP.XVII 0094 | 362.829 INT P | My Library (KDRT 1) | Available |
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