Research shows domestic abuse can cause PTSD in children

Experts say that child abuse may occur in up to 60 percent of families who experience domestic violence, SCNow.com reports.

Research from the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) shows that between 3 and 10 million children observe abuse from one parent to the other each year.

Researchers found that children in homes where domestic violence occurs may experience cognitive and language problems, developmental delay, or hearing and speech problems.

Furthermore, over half of children who experience violent behavior from a parent show symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Effects of PTSD, such as depression, anxiety and low self-worth, diminish after the child is no longer exposed to violent behavior. However, experts suggest that the impact of the condition can continue during adolescence. Behaviors such as self-harm, aggression and abusing drugs or alcohol are more likely to appear in teens who have experienced traumatic events.

Experts say that early intervention has been proven to quell many of the symptoms of PTSD in kids. Boarding schools can help those individuals who suffer from the condition develop a feeling of self-worth and better confidence.

According to a study by the DVA, 25 percent of reported cases of PTSD in children are a result of physical and psychological abuse.