Dear Editor, Domestic violence occurs in homes and it affects children mostly. Unfortunately, the effects of domestic violence on children is often overlooked since the concentration is on the key adult players caught in the act.
Domestic violence is a pattern of behaviour in any relationship that is used to gain or maintain power and control over an intimate partner.
This includes any behaviour that frightens, intimidates, terrorises, manipulates, hurts, humiliates, blames, injures or wounds someone.
Domestic abuse can happen to anyone of any race, age, sexual orientation, religion or gender.
It can occur within a range of relationships, including couples who are married, living together or dating.
I say children are worst affected by this because if any of the parents suffer from domestic violence, it affects the children psychologically and emotionally. Thier general well being is also affected.
In some homes, the children are forced to drop out of school or end up on the streets where they pick up all manner of negative behaviour.
If care is not taken, such children will grow up to become irresponsible.
It is important for parents to think seriously about the effects of their actions on their children.
They should protect them so that they can grow well. Domestic violence is not good and must be stopped.
Kristen Yayra Wilson,
Shalom International School,
Central Educational Foundation,
Accra.
• If there is violence at home, it affects children.
