Domestic Abuse and Juveniles

Domestic violence can have a significant impact on children and adolescents. Even when a child is not physically assaulted, witnessing or being exposed to domestic violence can have serious effects on their emotional well-being, behavior, development, and sense of safety. Children may experience domestic violence in many ways. They may witness violence between adults, hear threats or arguments, see the aftermath of an incident, be used by an abusive person to control or intimidate another family member, or experience physical, emotional, or sexual abuse themselves. Exposure to domestic violence can affect a child’s current well-being and may also have lasting effects into adolescence and adulthood. Every child responds differently, and signs of distress may not always be obvious.

Teen Dating Violence

Teen dating violence is a pattern of physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, or technology-facilitated abuse by a current or former dating partner. Teen dating violence can happen in person or through technology. Teens may be reluctant to disclose abuse because they may feel embarrassed, afraid of getting in trouble, believe that the behavior is normal, or worry about what will happen if someone finds out.

Examples of Teen Dating Violence and Abuse:

  • Hitting, pushing, kicking, or other physical violence
  • Unwanted or forced sexual contact
  • Threats, intimidation, or insults
  • Excessive jealousy or possessiveness
  • Controlling who a teen sees, talks to, or spends time with
  • Monitoring phones, social media, location, or messages
  • Repeated unwanted calls or messages
  • Threatening to share private photographs or information
  • Isolating a teen from friends or family
  • Controlling clothing, appearance, or activities
  • Threatening self-harm or suicide to prevent a partner from ending the relationship

Facts

Exposure to domestic violence and dating violence can have significant consequences for children and adolescents.

  • In 2023, 6.4% of high school students who had dated or gone out with someone reported experiencing physical dating violence during the previous 12 months. CDC
  • In 2023, approximately 18.6% of high school students reported having witnessed intimate partner violence during their lifetime. CDC
  • Youth who experience dating violence are at increased risk for depression, anxiety, substance use, and other negative health outcomes.
  • Youth who experience dating violence may be at increased risk of experiencing violence in future relationships.
  • Exposure to violence during childhood can affect a young person’s emotional, behavioral, social, and developmental well-being.

For current statistics and research regarding children, domestic violence, and teen dating violence, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other authoritative sources listed below.

Signs of Abuse

Children and teens may respond to exposure to violence in different ways. Potential warning signs include:

  • Depression or anxiety
  • Withdrawal from family or friends
  • Sudden changes in behavior or personality
  • Increased irritability, anger, or aggression
  • Difficulty concentrating or problems at school
  • Declining academic performance
  • Sleeping too little or too much
  • Eating too little or too much
  • Frequent physical complaints, such as headaches or stomachaches
  • Alcohol or drug use
  • Bullying or physically aggressive behavior
  • Unexplained injuries, bruises, or other marks
  • Fearfulness or being unusually watchful or alert
  • Regression in behavior, such as bedwetting in a previously toilet-trained child
  • Self-harm or thoughts of suicide
  • Age-inappropriate or concerning sexualized behavior
  • Running away or frequently avoiding home
  • Becoming unusually secretive about a dating relationship
  • A dating partner attempting to control a young person’s activities, friendships, communication, or social media use

How Adults Can Help

If you are concerned about a child or teenager:

  • Listen calmly and allow them to talk without judgment.
  • Let them know that the abuse is not their fault.
  • Take threats and disclosures seriously.
  • Avoid pressuring them to provide details they are not ready to share.
  • Help them identify trusted adults and sources of support.
  • If there is an immediate threat or danger, call 911.
  • If you suspect child abuse or neglect, report your concerns to the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF).

For Parents, Caregivers, and Other Adults

A child does not have to be physically assaulted to be affected by domestic violence. Witnessing violence, hearing threats, seeing injuries or property damage, or living in an environment of fear can have a significant impact on a child.

If a child or teenager discloses abuse, focus first on safety and support. Avoid blaming the child, confronting the alleged offender in front of the child, or making promises about what will happen next.

Reporting Child Abuse or Neglect in Massachusetts

If you suspect that a child is being abused or neglected:

🚨Immediate danger: Call 911.

Massachusetts Child Abuse Emergency Line:
1-800-792-5200

Available 24 hours a day, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

The Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF) accepts reports of suspected child abuse and neglect.

Support for Teens and Families

SafeLink – Massachusetts Statewide Domestic Violence Hotline
1-877-785-2020
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

SafeLink provides confidential support and connects people affected by domestic or dating violence with local services, safety planning, and other resources.

Learn More