86 Domestic Violence: How it Impacts Children

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Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior in which one partner repeatedly uses physical force or threats of violence against the other partner. It can take many forms, including physical, sexual, emotional, and economic abuse. Domestic violence affects everyone, no matter what age or size, and it is an important topic we should cover, however, it might be triggering for some people. If you're worried that someone you know may be experiencing domestic violence, it's important to talk to them about it.  In today’s episode, our guest Dr. Claudia B. Fenderson, EdD shares with us relevant information about the resources available to help victims get out of abusive relationships and discloses why professionals like pediatricians can play an important role in identifying and providing resources to children and families affected by domestic violence. 

Dr. Claudia B. Fenderson has served as the Director/Chair of the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Marist College until her retirement this past year. She has a BS in Physical Therapy from Columbia University; an MS in Physical Therapy from Long Island University and an EdD in Child and Youth Studies from Nova Southeastern University. Her career spans more than 45 years and the majority of her experience has been in the areas of education and neurologic rehabilitation, primarily in infants and preschoolers with developmental delays and disabilities. 

Key Highlights: 

[00:01 - 09:31] Open Segment 

How Dr. Claudia got interested in domestic violence

Violence can be classified into four types: physical, sexual, psychological, and economic

Domestic violence can involve any type of abuse, from physical to emotional to financial, and can happen to anyone

[09:32 - 20:07] Have Conversations About Healthy Relationships with All of Your Patients

There are warning signs that should be observed in order to identify domestic violence

It is important for professionals to ask about domestic violence when they are concerned for a child's wellbeing

How to identify a controlling relationship, and offer resources to teens who are in a difficult relationship

[20:08 - 33:28] Provide Resources and Support to Victims

During Covid was difficult to identify people who were experiencing domestic violence

Health care professionals should be aware of risks and be prepared to help victims in difficult situations

Domestic violence is a problem that affects both men and women, but it is especially an issue for women

Healthcare providers should be aware of the signs and symptoms of domestic violence

[33:29 - 41:45] Help Patients Feel Less Alone 

By asking questions, clinicians can help prevent harm to patients and children

Offering resources and help to adult victims of domestic violence is essential

Adults need to know that they are not alone and that they can come to talk to us if they need help

[41:46 - 44:38] Final Takeaways

• All professionals who care for kids have an opportunity to ask about domestic violence and safety
• Domestic violence and intimate partner violence is all about control
• We often consider physical abuse, but we need to think about emotional abuse
• Domestic violence is common with estimates that one-third of men and women have been in a domestic violence situation and that 15% of children may have witnessed domestic violence
• Domestic violence is a public health concern
• Teens who have witnessed domestic violence may believe that violence is an acceptable way to deal with conflict
• Ask universally about domestic violence and intimate...