ANNEXURE 2: ASSIGNMENT COVER SHEET
Student Code/ID:
1
5
0
2
1
1
Name
Kuenzang Losel
Unit code
402
Submitted to
Mrs. Kuenga Yangki
Assignment title
The Impacts of Domestic Violence on School Going Children’s
Development in Thimphu.
Word count
8402
CHECKLIST
I have:
Followed the referencing rules set out in the unit outline.
Declaration
I acknowledge that:
This assignment is my own work
This assignment is expressed predominantly in my own words
The words and ideas of others, where used, are properly used and acknowledge
No part of this assignment has been previously submitted for assessment.
I understand that by submitting my work to in both soft and hard copy to Royal Institute of
Management (RIM), it will be maintained within the premises of Institute’s Academic Policy.
Signature
Date: 07/12/2015
Time:
Acknowledgement
It gives me immense pleasure to express my humble gratitude to the Royal Institute of
Management for providing me with this opportunity to conduct this research.
I would like to express my deepest appreciation to my supervisor, Madam Kuenga Yangki,
Assistant Lecturer, Department of Information & Communication Technology whose consistent
guidance, suggestions and encouragement despite her busy schedules led me to execute this
research successfully.
I would like to thank Mr. Ugyen Lhendup (Course Coordinator) and Madam Karma Tshomo
(Program Assistant) for their continued support during the completion of this research.
I am grateful to the principals, teachers and students of Loselling Middle Secondary School,
Jigme Losel Primary School and Changangkha Middle Secondary School for their support and
participation in this research.
I would like to thank Ministry of Education for approving my request to collect necessary data
from the schools. I would like to further acknowledge the support from focal persons and
councilors from RENEW, NCWC and UNICEF. I would like to thank all those people who were
both directly or indirectly involved and contributed to this research.
i
List of Tables and Figures
Table 1: Respondent’s Classification……………………………………………………………………10
Figure 1: Gender of the Public…………………………………………………………………………..10
Figure 2: Students from different classes……………………………………………………………….11
Figure 3: Victims of Domestic Violence………………………………...………………………………11
Figure 4: Type of Domestic Violence……………………………………………………………………12
Figure 5: Reaction of Children Who Witnessed Domestic Violence…………….………………….12
Figure 6: Children exposed to Domestic Violence Suffers from Feelings of Loss and
Confusion………………………………………….……….………………………………………13
Figure 7: A Child Exposed to Domestic Violence Suffers from Insomnia & have Frequent
Nightmares………………………………………….………………………………………….…14
Table 2: Expression of Frustration and Anger………………………………………………………...15
Figure 8: Children have Conduct Problems at School when Exposed to Violence at Home…....17
Figure 9: How often do the Children have Conduct Problems at School.....................................17
Figure 10: Children Exposed to Domestic Violence Abuse Drugs and Alcohol………………….18
Figure 11: Children Exposed to Domestic Violence Suffers from Sicknesses and
Diseases……………………………………………………………………….……………..……19
Table 3: Abuse and Injury to Children during Domestic Violence………….….………………….20
Table 4: Student’s Response to the type of Violence they Experience…………..…………………21
Figure 12: Children Stay Away from Home and Involve in other activities due to Violence at
Home………………………………………..…………………………………..….....................22
Table 5: Children exposed to domestic violence are not attentive in class and active in cocurricular activities.........................................................................................................23
Figure 13: Children exposed to domestic violence are poor in studies and score less in the exams.....24
Figure 14: Student’s score in the exams……………………………….………………………………….......25
ii
Table of Contents
Acknowledgement ............................................................................................................................................................................. i
List Of Tables And Figures............................................................................................................................................................... ii
Abstract............................................................................................................................................................................................ iv
Chapter 1: Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................................... 1
Problem Statement ....................................................................................................................................................................... 2
Research Objective ...................................................................................................................................................................... 4
Research Question ....................................................................................................................................................................... 4
Significance of The Study ............................................................................................................................................................ 4
Chapter 2: Literature Review ............................................................................................................................................................ 5
Chapter 3: Research Methodology .................................................................................................................................................... 8
Research Design .......................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Data Collection ............................................................................................................................................................................ 8
Sampling Method ......................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Sample Design ............................................................................................................................................................................. 9
Limitations Of The Study ............................................................................................................................................................ 9
Chapter 4: Findings and Discussion................................................................................................................................................ 10
Classification Of The Respondents ............................................................................................................................................ 10
Profile of the Respondents ......................................................................................................................................................... 10
1. Feelings of Loss And Confusion ............................................................................................................................................ 13
2. Insomnia and Nightmares ...................................................................................................................................................... 14
3. Frustration and Anger ............................................................................................................................................................ 15
4. Conduct Problems at School .................................................................................................................................................. 16
4.1 Student’s Conduct Problems ............................................................................................................................................ 17
5. Abuse of Drugs and Alcohol .................................................................................................................................................. 18
6. Sicknesses and Diseases......................................................................................................................................................... 19
7. Abuse and Injury .................................................................................................................................................................... 20
7.1 Type of Violence ............................................................................................................................................................. 21
8. Involvement in Other Activities Due to Domestic Violence .................................................................................................. 22
9. Active in Class & Co-Curricular Activities ........................................................................................................................... 23
10. Impacts on Academic Performance ...................................................................................................................................... 24
10.1 Student’s Score in Exams .............................................................................................................................................. 25
Overall Findings ............................................................................................................................................................................. 25
Chapter 5: Recommendations and Conclusion ............................................................................................................................... 28
Recommendations ...................................................................................................................................................................... 28
Conclusion ................................................................................................................................................................................. 29
References ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 30
Appendix ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 34
iii
Abstract
Domestic violence is one of the rising concerns in the world. It not only affects the happiness of a
home but also has a lot of implications on the victims which usually includes women and
children. This study aims to study the impacts of domestic violence on school going children’s
development in Thimphu. In total, 87 students, 31 focal persons and counselors and 50 general
public participated in this research. Of these only 145 were valid and selected for the research.
The research was carried out in a few selected primary schools, some concerned agencies and
members of the public. Furthermore, focal persons and counselors from RENEW, NCWC and
UNICEF and some randomly selected general public were selected for this research survey.
Data for this research were collected from both primary and secondary sources with major focus
on the primary data for which the central instrument used was questionnaire. Secondary data
were collected from academic journals, reports, publications, newspapers and magazines. A
simple random sampling technique has been used for this research in which the findings from
this research are compared and analyzed together.
The findings of this study suggest that there are certain impacts on a child’s development when
he/she is exposed to domestic violence. The result indicated that children who are exposed to
violence suffer physically, socially, emotionally and other areas like altercation in their attitude
and behavior. All the three groups of respondents agreed that children exposed to domestic
violence emotionally suffers from feelings of loss, confusion, frustration and anger. They also
agreed that there is behavioral and attitudinal impacts on children which includes aggressive
behaviors, conduct problems at school and lack of active participation in class and co-curricular
activities. Most of the respondents pointed out that a child exposed to domestic violence is
physically prone to abuse and injury from the perpetrators. The general public and the focal
persons/counselors pointed out that there is a high chance of children abusing drugs and alcohol
when exposed to domestic violence. On the contrary, most of the children who are exposed to
domestic violence disagreed and said that they do not abuse drugs and alcohol. The three groups
of respondents agreed that children exposed to violence avoids spending time with family and try
to involve in other activities when there is violence at home.
iv
Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
Chapter 1: Introduction
Introduction
Domestic violence refers to the abuse and/or assault of adolescents or adults by their intimate
partners. It is used interchangeably with intimate partner abuse and inter-parental violence.
Battering is often used to refer to domestic violence or frequent and severe abuse.
Domestic violence is used to intimidate, humiliate or frighten victims as a systematic way of
maintaining power and control over them and typically involves repetitive behavior including
different types of abuse – physical assault, psychological, emotional and economical abuse, and
use of children (Baker, Jaffe & Ashbourne, 2002). It is a type of violence that is prevalent in
many homes worldwide and it is recognized as the most violent attacks on an individual or a
group of people especially women and children.
While assessing the impacts of domestic violence on children’s development, a thoughtful
consideration should be given to the effects on children living in a home where spousal abuse is
occurring. Childhood is regarded as a period of special protection and rights. Children’s
development is expected to unfold within a secure and nurturing environment. Environment
infected by violence and fear are likely to affect all the normal tasks of growing up (Domestic
Violence, 2002).
It has been found out that children who experience childhood trauma, including witnessing
incidents of domestic violence, are at a greater risk of having serious adult health problems
including tobacco use, substance abuse, obesity, cancer, heart disease, depression and a higher
risk for unintended pregnancy. Physical abuse during childhood increases the risk of future
victimization among women and the risk of future perpetration of abuse by men more than twofold (The Facts on Children and Domestic Violence, n.d.).
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
Problem Statement
Various terms in different literatures are used to identify children’s experiences of domestic
violence which includes: witnessing, experiencing direct abuse, hearing or seeing, living and
being exposed to domestic violence. Being indirect victim to domestic violence at home leads to
serious emotional, psychological, social, behavioral and developmental consequences in
children. Infants and young children are especially at risk. Perpetrators attack mother–child
relationship to commit violence. They often use children as bait and threaten to harm them in
order to commit violence (The Impact of Domestic Violence on Children, 2011).
As many as 275 million children worldwide get caught in the crossfire of domestic violence and
suffer the full consequences of a troubled home life. Violence against children at the highest
level includes physical and psychological abuse and injury, neglect or negligent treatment,
exploitation and sexual abuse. Parents and other close family members are the main perpetrators.
Children exposed to violence often suffers from long-term physical and psychological damage
that weakens their capability to learn and socialize, and makes it challenging for them to perform
well in school and develop close and positive friendships. Children who grow up in a violent
atmosphere are more likely to suffer abuse compared to children who have a peaceful home life.
Studies conducted in China, Colombia, Egypt, India, Mexico, the Philippines and South Africa
indicates a strong relationship between violence against women and violence against children.
Children who are not directly abused themselves can undergo behavioral and psychological
consequences of growing up in a violent home which can be devastating. Children who are
exposed to violence often suffer symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, such as bed-wetting
or nightmares, and are at greater risk than their peers of suffering from allergies, asthma,
gastrointestinal problems, depression and anxiety. Primary school- age children who are exposed
to domestic violence show degenerating concentration and focus and have trouble with
schoolwork and are more likely to attempt suicide and abuse drugs and alcohol (Domestic
violence against children, n.d.).
Studies conducted in Bhutan by some of the teachers reveal an increasing trend in domestic
violence and cruelty towards children from their parents which have lots of impacts in different
aspects of their life.
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
The following data maintained by RENEW (Respect, Educate, Nurture and Empower Women),
shows an increase in the reported domestic violence cases in the country. RENEW has recorded
2020 reported domestic violence cases from 2009 to 2014. In 2012, 374 cases of domestic
violence were reported to RENEW, followed by 375 cases in 2013 and 382 cases in year 2014.
The highest case reported to RENEW is that of a mother searching for the father of her child,
categorized as ‘willful negligence’ with 121 cases in 2014 and 127 cases in the 2013. According
to RENEW, the age distribution between 19-25 years and 26-30 years are most vulnerable to
domestic violence reported with RENEW and lowest is in age distributions of 51-60 years.
(Source: The Bhutanese 2015; http://www.thebhutanese.bt/domestic-violence-cases-on-the-rise).
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
Research Objective
This research aims to find out impacts of domestic violence on school going children’s
development in Thimphu.
Research Question
To find out some of the possible impacts of domestic violence on children’s development that
includes;
 Emotional impacts
 Behavioral impacts
 Physical impacts
 Attitudinal/Cognitive impacts
 Social impacts
Significance of the Study
This study will focus on the possible impacts of domestic violence on school going children’s
development in Thimphu. At the end of this study, the findings are also expected to give rise to
some references which would lead to better understanding of the different phases of turmoil the
children go through when they are exposed to domestic violence. It will also allow and enable
concerned stakeholders involved in creating awareness on the impacts of domestic violence on
children’s development. This study will be critical for the victims of domestic violence,
counselors who deals with the issues of domestic violence, parents, school authorities, and
society in general which would ultimately aid in understanding the victims of domestic violence
and better understanding their experiences.
The information contained in this study will have implications on the policy makers and
educators in the related field to understand the impacts of domestic violence and follow
accordingly with required actions. This study will also find out what the concerned authorities,
stakeholders and the victims themselves should do in order to curb this issue of domestic
violence.
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
Chapter 2: Literature Review
Researchers around the world have been conducting researches to delineate the issue of domestic
violence and its implications on children. Lots of researches show that domestic violence has a
definite relationship with the impacts it has on a child’s development.
Domestic violence occurs when one person in a relationship uses some form of violence to exert
power and control over the other person. Other terms for domestic violence include partner
violence, marital violence, spouse abuse, wife abuse, woman abuse, intimate partner violence
and violence in relationships. For statistical purposes, in research studies and much literature,
violence towards partners refers to physical abuse and threats of abuse, criminal harassment and
sexual abuse. Other forms of abuse are part of the continuum of violence towards women,
children and vulnerable adults. Emotional/psychological abuse, which is sometimes considered
to be more insidious and more damaging than physical abuse, includes abuse of pets and
property, threats to deport an immigrant, ridicule of culture or spirituality, and using children to
manipulate or hurt and humiliate their mother. Financial abuse includes withholding money for
basic necessities such as medications, food, clothing and transportation. These are all behaviors
or strategies designed to intimidate, coerce, belittle and control the other partner. (Interventions
with children exposed to domestic violence, 2012).
Davidson (1994) has reported that the state and local associations have increasingly developed
legal services for victims of domestic violence and several national groups have focused on
effective responses to domestic violence unaware of the little attention that has been paid to the
traumatic effects of domestic violence on children. Howard in his report has clearly stated the
immediate responses a victim may need as a result of violence. This undertaken he mentions that
it is equally important for people to understand the effect that the violence may have on a child
who has witnessed violence. Many ignore the implications of a child's exposure to domestic
violence in his or her own home. As a result, the impact of domestic violence on children has not
always received the attention it warrants within the legal system.
Ignorance of children traumatized due to domestic violence at home leads to a variety of changes
in their exposure to the way they lead their life. Children develop symptoms through the
experience of domestic violence and it may eventually lead to emotional, behavioral, attitudinal,
social and physical implications.
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
Studies conducted in Bhutan found that children of those mothers subjected to intimate partner
violence were more likely to be affected by the violence than were the children of those mothers
not subjected to violence. There was significant difference in children having nightmares and
children showing aggressiveness, while no significant difference was observed with the other
symptoms statistically. It was found in the Bhutan study that children did witness incidents of
physical violence on their mother by the father, although it was reported to be so by only around
a quarter of the respondents. This finding was particularly significant from the point of view of
the violence they had witnessed contributing negatively to their emotional and behavioral
change. The study indicated that children exposed to domestic violence were likely to show
certain unhealthy behaviors, most of all aggressiveness and nightmares. This supported research
in other countries as cited by the Maldives study, that there was statistically significant
association between women’s intimate partner violence and their children’s emotional and
behavioral problems (Study on Situation of Violence against Women in Bhutan, n.d.).
Fantuzzo & Mohr (1999) indicated that between 45% and 70% of children exposed to domestic
violence are also victims of physical abuse, and that as many as 40% of child victims of physical
abuse are also exposed to domestic violence. Children in households with domestic violence
were also found to be at higher risk for sexual abuse than were children in nonviolent
households. In addition, studies in this review suggested that negative outcomes were more
likely for children who experienced both domestic violence and child maltreatment than for
children who had experienced only one form of violence or no violence.
According to the report by BMIS thematic analyses (2012), the perception of domestic violence
being a ‘private affair’, if not part of married life, is still prevalent, and a ‘culture of silence’
around family and gender-based violence is fairly common in Bhutan. Nearly one in every four
ever married women aged 15-49 years reports having experienced domestic violence by their
husband or partner at some point in their life. Acceptance of domestic violence is surprisingly
high in Bhutan (68 per cent) and, even more surprisingly, slightly higher than average among
young women aged 15-24 years. The most commonly cited justification is neglecting the
children besides going out without the husband’s consent and arguing. The acceptance of
domestic violence among women is slightly higher in rural areas, and lower among the richest
women, but otherwise quite constant across all demographic groups. As much as 87 per cent of
the women who frequently experienced violence express an accepting attitude. Victims of
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
domestic violence may be very hesitant to seek help from either family and friends or
professional institutions. It will require strong, concerted efforts from health professionals, the
educational system, the police, legal, and judicial systems, and from civil society organizations
to communicate to men and women, and boys and girls, that domestic violence is never
acceptable. In order to have any effect, health care targeting victims of domestic violence will
have to be more forthcoming and proactive in discussing these issues.
According to Jenney (2012), the long term implications of domestic violence can be felt across
all the major areas of human functioning; emotional, cognitive, physical, behavioral and social.
Physical effects of domestic violence include illness and diseases, fighting with peers, physical
injuries and neglecting personal hygiene. Children experiencing prenatal physical domestic
violence are at an increased risk of exhibiting aggressive, anxious, depressed or hyperactive
behaviors (Ross, 2003). The emotional effects of children who witness domestic violence are
accompanied by fear, guilt, shame, low self-esteem, trauma related symptoms like sleeping
disorders, nightmares, sadness, depression, anger, anxiety and stress, feeling isolated and feeling
helpless. The behavioral effects include aggression, conduct problems at schools, disobedience,
delinquent behaviors; stealing, running away, abuse of alcohol and drugs, withdrawal from social
relationships and continuation of family violence pattern into adulthood (Malkin, n.d.).
Humphreys and Mullender (n.d.) conducted detailed studies on children’s cognitive abilities of
affected children living with domestic violence and found out those children who experienced
violence showed significantly lower levels of competence on a number of parameters, including
school performance; behavioral problems were also observed in the class and high rate of
absenteeism. Social effects of children who witness domestic violence include fewer and low
quality peer relations and social relationships, avoidance of friends and avoid spending time with
family, excessive social involvement to stay away from home (Ross, 2003).
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
Chapter 3: Research Methodology
Research Design
The study uses the mixed method. The rationale for using a mixed method approach for this
research is to explore and describe the opinion of different groups of people on the impacts of
domestic violence on children and also finding out the figures and statistics to the problem.
Through this way we could get a first-hand experience of what a child feels who undergoes
domestic violence.
Data Collection
The primary data for this study has been collected through structured survey questionnaire which
were distributed to schools and organizations who are acquainted with issues related to domestic
violence in Thimphu. Individuals were randomly picked from Thimphu for acquiring data in the
public category. Since this research is focused in the urban area of Thimphu, data collection was
done in a few selected schools and organizations that are familiar and well versed in the problem
that this research is exploring.
The secondary data was collected from various national and international organizations. Sources
like National Commission for Women and Children (NCWC), Bhutan Multiple Index Survey
(BMIS), Respect Educate Nurture and Empower Women (RENEW) and National Women’s
Association of Bhutan (NWAB) were used for collecting data. All available primary and
secondary data were collected for this study.
Sampling Method
Simple random sampling technique was used to select people to respond to their observations on
the impacts of domestic violence from various backgrounds while purposive sampling was used
for the selection of focal persons who are acquainted with domestic violence cases. Focal
persons and counselors from rehabilitation centers like RENEW and people from other
organizations like NCWC and UNICEF are the main persons for providing essential information
related to domestic violence and its impacts on children’s development.
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
Sample Design
A sample size of 187 people was randomly selected to collect the necessary data required for this
research. School going children were randomly selected from three different schools. They were
selected from classes four, five and six. The main reason behind random selection of students
from the schools was to find out the rate of domestic violence in each household of the selected
students. This would enable us to find out if domestic violence is widespread in Thimphu.
Limitations of the Study
This study attempts to study the effects of domestic violence on school going children’s
development in Thimphu, and furthermore, since the sample size of this research is only 145
excluding the invalid respondents, the sample size of this research may not be able to represent
perceptions of the country at large. Only three schools in Thimphu were selected for the research
and randomly selected samples from the schools were assumed to be the representation of the
primary school children. The end results cannot be generalized to the children of primary schools
in the country.
Since the research topic I am undertaking is sensitive, it was tough to harbor honest and direct
responses from the respondents who were subtle and delicate. This may have eventually
prompted the respondents’ low responses to some statements in this research.
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
Chapter 4: Findings and Discussion
Classification of the Respondents
Sl. No
Group of Respondents
Total
1
Students from three different schools selected for the study
87
2
General public randomly selected for the study
50
Focal Persons/counselors from concerned
3
agencies/organizations
31
Total
168
Table 1: Respondent’s classification
Profile of the Respondents
General public (Gender %)
A total of 50 people in the category
of general public were ramdomly
selected for the survey. From the
total respondents, 40% (20) were
Female
40%
female and 60% (30) were male.
The general public selected for the
Male
60%
survey consisted civil servants,
private
employees,
businessmen
and women, corporate employees,
trainees and college students.
Male
Female
Figure 1: Gender of the public
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
A total of 87 students from three different
schools (Changangkha MSS, Loselling MSS and
TOTAL STUDENTS FROM DIFFERENT
CLASS
Jigme Losel Primary School) were randomly
selected for the survey. The respondents
IV
23%
comprised of students from classes IV, V and VI
VI
41%
respectively. Of the total respondents, 23% (20)
were from class IV, 36% (31) were from class V
V
36%
and 41% (36) were from class VI. The ages of
the students ranged between 9 to 15 years and
comprised of 45 male and 42 females.
Figure 2: Students from different classes
In the other category of respondents, a total of 31 persons were selected for the study. This group
of respondents comprises of people who are experienced in the issue of domestic violence. It
includes focal persons and counselors from relevant organisations and agencies who advocate for
the right of women and children in the country. These include RENEW (Respect, Educate,
Nurture, Empower Women), NCWC (National Commission for Women and Children) and
UNICEF (United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund).
Figure 3: Victims of domestic violence
For this research, the primary
Victims of domestic violence
instrument used was questionnaire.
As shown in figure 3, from the total
No
26
of 87 students randomly picked for
the research survey, almost 74%
Yes
74%
(64) of them said they experienced
and
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
witnessed
some
kind
of
domestic violence at home. 26%
(23) of the students said they did not experience or witness domestic violence in their home.
Majority of the students pointed out that alcohol was the main reason for fighting followed by
marital affairs and issues related to children. The UN Secretary-General’s Study on Violence
Against Children (2006) conservatively assessed that 275 million children are exposed to
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
violence at home worldwide. In 2012, the police have reported a total of 231 cases of domestic
violence and harassment in Bhutan (Tenzin, 2013).
To study the effects of domestic violence on children’s development, only 64 of the total
students who are affected by domestic violence are selected for the purpose. These selected
students are the victims of domestic violence who claims that they experience and witness
domestic violence in their home.
Figure 4: Type of domestic violence
Type of violence
witnessed
Of the 64 children who were victims of
domestic violence, 41 (64%) of them stated
36%
that they witnessed verbal assault during the
64%
violence while 23 (36%) of the victims said
that they witnessed physical assault.
Physical Assault
Verbal Assault
Figure 5: Reaction of children who witnessed
70%
58%
60%
domestic violence
50%
PERCENTAGE
41%
Figure 5 shows the reaction and intervention of
40%
30%
the children while there was domestic violence
20%
at home. Form the total respondents, only 2%
10%
(1) stated that they shouted for help when there
2%
was domestic violence at home. 41% (26) of
0%
Shout for help Tried to stop
Kept quiet
RANGE
the children responded that they tried to stop
the fight by getting involved in the situation.
These victims said they tried to stop violence by begging their parents to stop. Another 58% (37)
of the victims indicated that they kept quiet during the violence. This, as they said was because
of the fear of getting beaten and being punished.
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
1. FEELINGS OF LOSS AND CONFUSION
120%
100%
No. of Respondents (%)
100%
92%
89%
80%
60%
40%
20%
6%
11%
2%
0%
0%
0%
0%
General Public
Focal Persons/Counselors
Yes
No
Students
Don't know
Figure 6: Children exposed to violence suffers from feelings of loss and confusion
The figure above shows the response to the statement “Children exposed to domestic violence
suffer from feelings of loss and confusion”. As shown in the figure, 92% (46) of the general
public agreed that children do suffer from feelings of loss and confusion when they are exposed
to domestic violence. All the focal persons and counselors (100%) defended the statement that
children who are exposed to domestic violence in the form of abuse or witnessing suffers from
feelings of loss and confusion which eventually has a lot of impacts on their health. Of the 64
students who are victims of domestic violence, 89% (57) responded that they suffered from
feelings of loss and confusion when they are being abused or witness domestic violence at home.
Majority of the respondents in the three different groups agreed that children exposed to
domestic violence suffer from feelings of loss and confusion. The responses from each category
of the respondents are high, which gives strong hold onto the given statement that children who
are victims of domestic violence go through a range of feelings of loss and confusion. Moreover
89% of the children who are immediate victims of domestic violence have responded saying they
do experience feelings of loss and confusion when they are exposed to domestic violence at
home. This supports the finding of Bagshaw (2007) who noted that feelings of sadness,
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
confusion and loss were the most reported by children who were living with violence at home.
Similarly, Ann (2013) revealed that children who witnessed domestic violence had a greater
likelihood of experiencing increased negative emotions such as anxiety and depression.
2. INSOMNIA AND NIGHTMARES
A CHILD EXPOSED TO VIOLENCE SUFFERS FROM
INSOMNIA & HAVE FREQUENT NIGHTMARES
91%
NO. OF RESPONDENTS
100%
90%
80%
74%
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
26%
30%
20%
14%
9%
6%
0%
10%
0%
0%
General Public
Focal Persons/Counselors
TRUE
FALSE
Students
Not sure
Figure 7: A child exposed to violence suffers from insomnia & have frequent nightmares
The figure above represents the responses from different groups to the statement “A child
exposed to domestic violence suffers from insomnia and have frequent nightmares”. The figure
indicates 80% (40) of the general public held that children would suffer from insomnia and have
frequent nightmares when they are exposed to domestic violence. In the same way, 74% (23) of
the counselors and focal persons who are experienced in dealing with issues related to domestic
violence agreed that children do suffer from insomnia and have nightmares when they are
exposed to domestic violence. In the other group of respondent, 91% (58) of the students who are
victims of domestic violence stated that they are not able to sleep well and they have frequent
nightmares when they witness domestic violence at home. Linda et al (2009) in her handbook
stated that children exposed to domestic violence display traumatic stress reactions that lead to
sleep disturbances. Linda and friends further noted that children constantly worry about possible
danger which leads to a certain fear of sleeping. Miller in his UNICEF Report (2006) reported
that children who are exposed to domestic violence often suffer from the symptoms of PostPGDPA, 150211
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) such as bed-wetting or nightmares. A WHO research
conducted in Bhutan found out that children exposed to domestic violence were likely to show
certain unhealthy behaviors such as aggressiveness and nightmares which also supported
research in other countries (Study on Situation of Violence against Women in Bhutan, 2009).
All the three groups of respondents approved that children who are exposed to domestic violence
would suffer from insomnia which would eventually cause disruption in their sleeping patterns.
This includes staying awake at night which makes the child restless and lazy in the morning
ultimately leading to not being active in the class. Children also experience frequent nightmares
after they witness violence. Children tend to sleep with the fear of being abused or sense of
danger approaching which causes them to have nightmares.
3. FRUSTRATION AND ANGER
A child expresses frustration and anger when he/she is exposed to
Statement
domestic violence
Respondents
Scale
Total no. of
respondents
Students
Yes
No
46
18
Total
%
Focal Persons/Counselors
Do not
know
0
Yes
No
24
2
64
72%
28%
Do not
know
5
General public
Yes
No
41
3
31
0%
77%
7%
Do not
know
6
50
16%
82%
6%
12%
Table 2: Expression of frustration and anger
Table 2 indicates that a child when exposed to domestic violence expresses frustration and anger.
As the statistics show, 46 (72%) of the 64 children who are victims of domestic violence
responded that they felt angry and frustrated when they witnessed domestic violence or were
abused by the perpetrators. Similarly, 77% (24) of the focal persons/counselors experienced in
dealing with the issues related to domestic violence responded that anger and frustration were
visible in a child who is exposed to domestic violence. Out of the 50 general public, 82% (41)
agreed that a child would express anger and frustration if he/she was exposed to domestic
PGDPA, 150211
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
violence and it’s after effects. A report presented at the Old Bidura House Ballroom (2002)
highlighted that young children exposed to domestic violence may not develop a sense of
security or trust which gradually results in anger directed towards adults and peers (Domestic
violence and its impacts on children’s development, 2002). Cummings and Davies (1994) also
stated that there are higher levels of aggression with the children who were exposed to domestic
violence and greater likelihood of seeing the intentions of other people as hostile and
intimidating.
The children who are victims of domestic violence stated that frustration and anger grow in them
when they witnesses fights between their parents at home. Child victims argued that although
they felt sad and depressed, they were largely frustrated and angry when they witnessed violence
between their parents at home. Focal persons/counselors added that due to the violent situation,
children were bound to sympathize with the victim but alongside, get angry and frustrated at the
perpetrator.
4. CONDUCT PROBLEMS AT SCHOOL
The graph given in figure 8 represents the responses from the general public and focal
person/counselors. 33 (66%) of 50 general public who responded to the question stated that
children exposed to domestic violence has behavioral problems at school. Additionally 20 (65%)
of the 31 focal persons and counselors who responded to the question agreed that children were
likely to have conduct problems at school. Conduct problems at school includes not following
the rules and regulations of the school, fighting, disobeying teachers and others. Studies done in
1989 and 1996 indicated that children exposed to domestic violence revealed more externalizing
behaviors than the children from non-violent homes.
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
CHILDREN EXPOSED TO VIOLENCE HAS CONDUCT
PROBLEMS AT SCHOOL
No. of Respondents (%)
70%
66%
65%
60%
50%
40%
30%
19%
20%
20%
16%
14%
10%
0%
TRUE
FALSE
General Public
Not sure
Focal Persons/Counselors
Figure 8: Children have conduct problems at school when exposed to violence at home
Specifically, these studies which examined the differences across groups in these behavioral
patterns indicated that children exposed to domestic violence were found to be more aggressive
and exhibited behavior problems in their school ranging from temper tantrums to fights with
friends and teachers (Fantuzzo and Mohr, 2000).
4.1.
STUDENT’S CONDUCT PROBLEMS
Figure 9: How often do the children
CONDUCT PROBLEMS
70%
have conduct problems at school.
61%
Student's response (%)
60%
Figure 9 shows the responses from
50%
student who are victims and have
40%
33%
30%
been
affected
by
domestic
violence. 61% (39) of the students
20%
10%
3%
said they have conduct problems
3%
sometimes. 3% (2) of the students
0%
Sometimes
Regularly
Always
Never
said they regularly had conduct
problems at school. Another 3% (2) of the students stated that they always has problems
regarding their conduct at school.
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
5. ABUSE OF DRUGS AND ALCOHOL
CHILDREN EXPOSED TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ABUSE
DRUGS AND ALCOHOL
Percentage
91%
70%
65%
YES
16%
14%
NO
DO NOT
KNOW
GENERAL PUBLIC
16%
YES
NO
19%
9%
DO NOT
KNOW
FOCAL
PERSONS/COUNSELORS
0%
YES
NO
DO NOT
KNOW
STUDENTS
Range
Figure 10: Children exposed to domestic violence abuse drugs and alcohol
Figure 10 represents the abuse of drugs and alcohol by children who are exposed to domestic
violence. From the 50 public who participated in the research, 35 (70%) of them stated that
children exposed to domestic violence were likely to abuse drugs and alcohol. 20 (65%) of the
31 focal persons and counselors responded that children exposed to domestic violence abuse
drugs and alcohol.
Although a majority of the general public and focal persons and counselors agreed that children
exposed to domestic violence abuse drugs and alcohol, 91% (58) of the students claimed that
children exposed to domestic violence did not abuse drugs and alcohol. A mere 9% (6) of the
students agreed that they abused drugs and alcohol because of the ongoing domestic violence at
home. These statistics supports researches done in other countries that children were bound to
abuse drugs and alcohol when exposed to domestic violence. A study done in Australia by
Richards (2011) reported that there was an increased likelihood of substance abuse as the
consequence of child abuse and/or exposure to domestic violence. Additionally Pinheiro’s (2006)
study found that living in a violent home could be a significant contributing factor to a range of
PGDPA, 150211
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
serious health conditions, including alcohol and drug abuse and depression among children. On
the contrary to the research findings from different people around the world, 9% of children who
were victims of the domestic violence stated that they do not abuse drugs and alcohol. It should
be taken into account that these children are very young and innocent and they are not easily
influenced by drugs and alcohol. One reason for low responses from the students maybe because
of the fear of being punished if they were caught.
6. SICKNESSES AND DISEASES
80%
67%
70%
Percentage
60%
50%
52%
48%
40%
34%
33%
30%
22%
18%
20%
26%
10%
0%
0%
Yes
No
Do not
know
General Public
Yes
No
Do not
know
Focal Persons/Counselors
Yes
No
Do not
know
Students
Range
Figure 11: Children exposed to domestic violence suffers from sicknesses and diseases
The graph given in figure 11 above displays the responses from different group of respondents
on whether a child exposed to domestic violence suffers from sicknesses/diseases or not. 48%
(24) of the general public voted that children do suffer from sicknesses or diseases when they are
exposed to domestic violence at home. Similarly, 52% (16) of the focal persons/counselors and
67% (43) of the student themselves stated that a child will suffer from sicknesses and diseases
when exposed to domestic violence at home.
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
A report “The Impact of Domestic Violence on Infants and Young Children” (2012) suggested
that children exposed to domestic violence had lower health status and more health conditions
and problems compared to children who were not exposed to domestic violence. Another report
found out that children who are exposed to domestic violence suffer symptoms of post-traumatic
stress disorder and they were at greater risk than their friends of having allergies, asthma,
gastrointestinal problems, obesity, cancer, heart disease, headaches and flu (The Facts on
Children and Domestic Violence, 2008).
Children who took part in the survey pointed out headache, fever, asthma, stomach ache and
dizziness as some of the most common diseases they suffered from when they were exposed to
domestic violence. According to a report “How are children affected” from Women’s Aid in
Northern Ireland, children complain of tummy pain or pain in other parts of their body after they
get abused or witness domestic violence.
7. ABUSE AND INJURY
Statement
Children get abused and injured when they are exposed to domestic violence
at home
Students
Respondents
Focal Persons/counselors
General public
Scale
Yes
No
Do not
know
Yes
No
Do not
know
Yes
No
Do not
know
Total No. of
respondents
24
40
0
14
2
15
28
9
13
64
Total
%
38%
62%
31
0%
45%
7%
50
48%
56%
18%
26%
Table 3: Abuse and injury to children during domestic violence
Table 3 shows the details to respondent’s perception of whether children gets abused and injured
when they are exposed to domestic violence at home. Of the 50 general public that responded to
the statement, 28 (56%) of them stated that children were bound to get abused and injured when
domestic violence occurred at home. Likewise, 14 (45%) of the 31 focal persons/counselors
PGDPA, 150211
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
responded that children get abused and injured when they are exposed to domestic violence at
home. 24 (38%) of the students who experiences domestic violence at home stated that they get
abused and injured when they were exposed to domestic violence at home. Almost 15 (48%) of
the focal persons/counselors said that they were not sure about this issue. They stated that it
depends on the situation and severity of the violence. Most of them agreed on the fact that
children get abused in certain cases while some do not.
7.1.
TYPE OF VIOLENCE
WHAT TYPE OF VIOLENCE DID YOU EXPERIENCE?
Total
Statement
Response
Physical Assault
Verbal Assault
Total
13
11
24
%
54%
46%
100%
Table 4: Student’s response to the type of violence they experienced
Table 4 shows the students who stated that they were abused/injured in one way or the other’s
responses to the type of violence they experienced while they were exposed to domestic
violence. Of the total 24 students who were abused/injured during inter-parental violence at
home, 54% (13) stated that they were physically abused and injured. 46% (11) of them stated
that they were verbally assaulted by the perpetrator. Analysis done by Humpreys and Mullender
(2003) found out that there were number of ways a child could be abused or injured or abused
when living with domestic violence. They suggested that children could accidentally be injured
when they get caught in the violence. Children may get injured or abused when they try to
intervene to protect their mothers and vice versa (Humpreys and Mullender, 2003). A study
conducted by Pagelow (1982) in the United States found out that approximately 50% of the
children who had both witnessed the domestic violence and been physically assaulted had been
injured during a domestic violence incident.
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
8. INVOLVEMENT IN OTHER ACTIVITIES DUE TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
CHILDREN STAY AWAY FROM HOME AND INVOLVE IN OTHER
ACTIVITIES DUE TO VIOLENCE AT HOME
100%
90%
87%
82%
80%
Percentage
70%
58%
60%
50%
42%
40%
30%
20%
8%
10%
13%
10%
0%
0%
0%
Yes
No
General Public
Do not
know
Yes
No
Do not
know
Focal Persons/Counselors
Yes
No
Do not
know
Students
Range
Figure 12: Children stay away from home and involve in other activities due to violence at home
Figure 12 shows majority of the respondents from different group agree that children stay away
from home and involve in other activities due to domestic violence at home. 82% (41) of general
public, 87% (27) of the focal persons/counselors and 58% (37) of the victimized children agreed
to the statement. A counselor from RENEW added that due to frequent domestic violence at
home, children feel betrayed of their parent’s love. As a result children tend to spend time in
other activities where they forget about the problem occurring at home and use their time
enjoying in activities that keep them engaged diverting their attention away from the violence at
home. Kitzmann et al (2012) in her study noted that not all children exposed to domestic
violence shows clinically significant levels of maladjustment. She further added that these
children may still experience mild problems that put them at risk for subsequent interpersonal
and social problems. Ross (2003) found out that children who are exposed to domestic violence
PGDPA, 150211
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
avoids spending time with family and friends. Additionally, she reported that victims of domestic
violence were into excessive social involvement to stay away from home (Ross, 2003).
9. ACTIVE IN CLASS & CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Statement
Children exposed to domestic violence are not attentive in class and active in
co-curricular activities
Students
Respondents
Focal Persons/Counselors
General public
Scale
Yes
No
Do not
know
Yes
No
Do not
know
Yes
No
Do not
know
Total No. of
respondents
45
19
0
22
3
6
34
6
10
64
Total
%
70%
30%
31
0%
71%
10%
50
19%
68%
12%
20%
Table 5: Children exposed to domestic violence are not attentive in class and active in co-curricular
activities
Due to domestic violence at home, children are not able to concentrate in the class and take part
in the regular activities of the school. After witnessing fights between their parents at home,
children remain absorbed in the thought and tend to get carried away which result in loss of
attention during classes and not enough will to take part in the co-curricular activities of the
school.
Figure shows 70% (45) of the students who are victims of domestic violence state that they are
unable to pay attention in the class while studying and are not able to take part in co-curricular
activities. Similarly, 68% (34) of general public and 71% (22) of focal persons/counselors who
have experience dealing with the issue of domestic violence stated that children would be unable
to pay attention in class and take active part in co-curricular activities when they are exposed to
domestic violence. Child Witness to Violence Report (n.d.), indicated that witnessing violence at
home affects children’s ability to learn. Due to this, children are easily distracted and they have
difficulty focusing and concentrating in school.
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
10. IMPACTS ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE
CHILDREN EXPOSED TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ARE POOR IN
STUDIES AND SCORE LESS IN THE EXAMS
80%
75%
71%
70%
70%
Percentage
60%
50%
40%
30%
25%
20%
19%
20%
10%
10%
10%
0%
0%
Yes
No
Do not
know
General Public
Yes
No
Do not
know
Focal Persons/Counselors
Yes
No
Do not
know
Students
Range
Figure 13: Children exposed to domestic violence are poor in studies and score less in the exams
All the group of respondents agreed that children exposed to violence are poor in studies and
tend to score comparatively less than other students who are not affected by domestic violence in
their examinations.70% (35) of the general public claimed that children affected by domestic
violence were poor in studies and scored less in examinations. Similarly, 71% (22) of the focal
persons/counselors stated that children exposed to domestic violence were poor in studies and
scored less in the exams compared to their counterparts who were not affected by domestic
violence. 75% (48) of the students affected by domestic violence who participated in the survey
pointed out that they were poor in studies and scored less in the examinations.
This finding supports the analysis done by Kitzmann et al (2012) who conducted a meta-analysis
of 118 empirical studies and found out that 63% of child witnesses of domestic violence were
PGDPA, 150211
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
faring more poorly than the average child who had not been exposed to inter-parental violence.
An example provided by a USA study which compared 37 children known to be living with
violence reported below average school performance from the children affected by domestic
violence at home. (Humpreys and Mullender, 2003).
STUDENT’S SCORE IN EXAMS
10.1.
Figure 14: Student’s score in the exams
Figure 14 displays the student’s
SCORE IN EXAMS
STUDENT'S SCORE IN
EXAMS
71% - 80%
performance in their examinations.
A total of 64 students who were
victims
19%
of
domestic
violence
provided their performance level.
61% - 70%
8%
Out of the total 64 students, 42%
51% - 60%
(27) of them said they scored
31%
40% - 50%
between 40% - 50%. 31% (20) of
42%
the students stated that they scored
0%
10%
20%
30%
% OF STUDENTS
40%
50%
in the range of 51% - 60%. 8% (5)
of the total students stated they
scored between 61% - 70% and 19% (12) of the students said they scored in the range of 71% 80%.
Overall Findings
The findings from this research indicate that school going children who are exposed to domestic
violence at home are affected in different ways. It is found out that there are negative impacts of
domestic violence on school going children’s development. The responses from the three groups
of respondents (students, general public and focal persons/counselors) were analyzed and
compared to understand the type of impact that the child is exposed to when they witness
domestic violence.
All the three groups of respondents agree that a child exposed to domestic violence would suffer
from feelings of loss and confusion which impacts their emotional development and well-being.
PGDPA, 150211
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
The respondents also agreed that children express anger and frustration. They would suffer from
insomnia and have frequent nightmares which would affect the emotional well-being of children
exposed to domestic violence.
Respondents agreed that children exposed to domestic violence are likely to have conduct
problems at school. Children exposed to domestic violence tend to violate the rules and
regulations of the school and constantly engage in fights with their peers. Respondents from
general public and focal persons/counselors stated that a child who is exposed to domestic
violence would abuse drugs and alcohol while the students affected by domestic violence said
they did not abuse drugs and alcohol. All these factors would affect the behavioral development
of a child who is at the learning and development phase of life.
Most of the students who are exposed to domestic violence agreed that they suffer from
sicknesses and diseases when they are exposed to domestic violence at home. Other groups of
respondents also agreed on the statement and added that children exposed to domestic violence
suffers from sicknesses and disease due to no proper care and personal hygiene. Victims of
domestic violence pointed out headache, fever, stomach ache, asthma and dizziness as some of
the most common diseases they suffered from due to exposure to domestic violence. Responses
from general public and focal persons/counselors showed that children are abused and injured
when they are exposed to domestic violence at home. Certain students agreed that they get
abused and injured during violence at home which would eventually impact the physical
development of a child.
Domestic violence has impacts on the social relationships that a child has in the society. All the
respondents agreed that when there is violence at home, children would tend to stay away from
home and involve in other activities to get away from the situation at home. General public and
focal persons/counselors stated that children who are exposed to domestic violence have poor
social relationships in the society. They also pointed out that children are less interested in
attending school as a result of domestic violence at home.
The findings also indicated that children exposed to domestic violence are not attentive in class
and active in co-curricular activities of the school. Furthermore, majority of the respondents from
the three groups responded that children exposed to domestic violence are poor in studies and
PGDPA, 150211
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
scored less in exams compared to their counterparts who are not affected by domestic violence.
These findings prove that there are effects on children’s cognitive and attitudinal development.
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
Chapter 5: Recommendations and Conclusion
Recommendations
Domestic violence is a growing issue in Bhutan which needs to be addressed as soon as possible.
In the crossfire of domestic violence, it is the helpless children who are affected in so many ways
which takes its toll on their development. These are some of the recommendations which can
help stop domestic violence in the first place and secondly support the victims.
1. Creation of awareness programs by government and concerned agencies which aims at
educating the people about the impacts and causes of domestic violence. This could
include constant seminars and facilitation of education on violence prevention methods.
The programs should be implemented and include both the victims and the offenders.
2. Government and concerned stakeholders who advocate for the rights of women and
children should initiate a sensitization program to individual families about the causes
and effects of domestic violence. Through this, we are able to delve into the problems of
domestic violence at the grassroots level.
3. Although there is Domestic Violence Prevention Act in the country, the government
needs to place stringent laws for the offenders which would discourage them from
committing crimes related to violence.
4. It is essential to know what a child exposed to domestic violence is feeling. For this,
concerned authorities need to create enabling environments where children can disclose
and talk about their experiences in confidence.
5. All the schools should be equipped with counselors and those schools which already have
counselors should encourage students to come forward and express themselves in
confidence. With this support system, children affected by domestic violence could be
counseled and advised appropriately and according to their needs. Ministry of Education
should render support to schools and provide necessary approval for the well-being of
children.
6. There needs to be a community level response service to victims of domestic violence
who should provide handy services that provide safety and nurture the emotional wellbeing of the victims. From these response programs, victims will benefit in family
counseling and child trauma cases.
PGDPA, 150211
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
Conclusion
This research study suggests that there are impacts of violence on children who are living in a
home with presence of domestic violence. Children exposed to domestic violence are affected in
a lot of ways and the implications are felt either physically or psychologically which eventually
weighs down on their development.
Capacities of children like emotional well-being, physical well-being, behavioral development,
attitudinal development and the child’s relationship with the society is affected due to the
exposure to domestic violence. A child will be emotionally traumatized and would express
depression, sadness, anger, frustration and fear when they are exposed to domestic violence. The
child who is exposed to domestic violence would develop behavioral problems ranging from
disobeying elders, not following rules and regulations of the school, fighting with friends and
having conduct problems at school. They are prone to getting sick and susceptible to diseases
due to lack of proper care and hygiene from their care givers. Children who witness violence at
home are less interested in attending school and they try to avoid friends and family when there
is violence at home. Due to violence at home, children are not able to concentrate well in the
class which eventually results in average performance in the examinations. They are unable to
take active participation in co-curricular activities conducted by school and on other platforms
which dispossesses them of their rights to learn and grow through exposure and experience like
other children who are not exposed to domestic violence.
With large numbers of children claiming to be victims of domestic violence, it is easy to
understand that domestic violence is on the rise globally. The impacts of domestic violence can
be devastating on the development process of a child. Instead of acquiring the life skills
necessary for development, children are left to cater to their own needs and obtain certain traits
which could hamper the well-being of their life processes in the future. As found out through this
study, children needs to be provided with necessary environment, love and care for essential
development after they have been exposed to domestic violence.
PGDPA, 150211
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
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Richards, K. Children’s Exposure to Domestic Violence in Australia. Retrieved from
http://www.aic.gov.au/media_library/publications/tandi_pdf/tandi419.pdf (2011)
Ross, C. Effects of domestic violence in children. Retrieved from http://www.scchildren.
org/public/files/docs/Conference/domestic_violence_children.pdf (2003)
Tenzin, P. Alcohol may be responsible for 80% of domestic violence in Bhutan. Retrieved from
http://bhutanobserver.bt/24-bo-news-aboutalcohol_may_be_responsible_for_80
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domes
tic_violence_in_bhutan.aspx (2013)
The Bhutanese. Domestic Violence Cases on the Rise. Retrieved from http://www.thebhutanese.
bt/domestic-violence-cases-on-the-rise (2015).
The Facts on Children and Domestic Violence. Retrieved on 15th April, 2015 from
http://www.futureswithoutviolence.org/userfiles/file/Children_and_Families/Children.pdf (n.d.)
The Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children: A Literature Review. Retrieved from
http://www.adfvc.unsw.edu.au/documents/ImpactsofDVonChildren.pdf (2012)
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
Violence against Women. Study on Situation of Violence against Women in Bhutan.
Retrieved on 23rd April, 2015 from http://www.ncwc.gov.bt/ncwc/files/publication/ study%20on
%20Situation%20of%20Violence%20against%20Women%20in% 20Bhutan.pdf (n.d.)
World Health Organization. Global Estimates of Health Consequences Due to Violence against
Children. Background Paper to the UN Secretary-General’s Study on Violence against Children.
Retrieved from http://www.violencestudy.org/I (2006)
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
Appendix
Questionnaires: Two sets (One for the students and another for the general public and focal
persons/councilors).
The First Set: For Focal Persons/Counselors and the General Public
Dear respondents
As part of my Post Graduate Diploma research at Royal Institute of Management, I am conducting a
survey to study the impacts of domestic violence on school going children’s development in primary
schools in Thimphu. Your participation would be highly appreciated and any information obtained shall
be confidential.
Thanking you
Kuenzang Losel
[email protected] # (+97517799916)
PGDPA, RIM, Semtokha
Personal Information (Tick/Specify the most appropriate)
Name (optional): …………………………………………………………………………………
Gender: Male
Occupation:
Female
Civil Servant
Private sector
Corporate sector
Business sector
Student
Trainee
Others (Specify): ………………………………
INSTRUCTION: Please tick against each statement given below to indicate your perception on the
effects of domestic violence on school going children’s development.
1. Do you agree that a child suffers from anxiety, depression and has low self-esteem when he/she is
exposed to violence?
Yes
No
Do not know
2. Do you think that a child exposed to violence at home suffers from feelings of loss, sadness and
confusion?
Yes
No
Do not know
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
3. Children exposed to violence at home suffers from insomnia and have frequent nightmares.
True
False
Not sure
4. A child expresses frustration and anger when he/she is exposed to domestic violence.
True
False
Not sure
5. Do you agree that boys are more aggressive and girls are more distressed when exposed to
domestic violence?
Yes
No
Do not know
6. The child exposed to domestic violence at home does not listen to their elders.
Yes
No
Do not know
7. Children exposed to violence at home has conduct problems and violate the rules and regulations
of the school?
True
False
Not sure
8. Children abuse drugs and alcohol because of violence at home.
True
False
Not sure
9. The child shows behaviors such as stealing, cheating, fighting and suicide attempt when exposed
to domestic violence.
True
False
Not sure
10. The child suffers from diseases and sicknesses because of domestic violence.
True
False
Not sure
11. The child constantly appears to be tired and shows symptoms of fatigue when exposed to
violence at home.
True
False
Not sure
12. The child suffers from physical injuries when they are exposed to violence between their parents
at home.
True
False
Not sure
13. The child suffers from physical injuries due to fights with their friends and they are at a high risk
of self-abuse and self-harm when exposed to domestic violence.
True
False
Not sure
14. Children exposed to violence has personal hygiene (not brushing teeth, taking bath, cleanliness)
compared to their friends.
True
False
Not sure
15. Do you think the child exposed to domestic violence has fewer friends?
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
Yes
No
Do not know
16. Do you think the child exposed to violence at home have low quality relationships with friends
and face difficulty in interacting with friends and adults?
Yes
No
Do not know
17. The child exposed to violence at home has poor social relationships.
True
False
Not sure
18. Children avoids spending time with family and friends when exposed to violence at home.
True
False
Not sure
19. The child tends to stay away from home and involve in other activities due to violence at home.
True
False
Not sure
20. Children exposed to violence are not attentive in class and active in co-curricular activities.
True
False
Not sure
21. Do you agree that children exposed to violence are poor in studies and score less in the exams?
Yes
No
Do not know
22. Children exposed to violence lack conflict resolution skills and problem solving skills.
True
False
Not sure
23. Children exposed to violence at home have difficulties in class (concentration, absenteeism, not
doing classworks and class participation).
True
False
Not sure
24. Children exposed to violence are less interested in attending schools.
True
False
Not sure
25. A child exposed to domestic violence daydream of a normal life and is pessimistic about the
future.
Yes
No
Do not know
Please provide any information (if any) on the effects of domestic violence on school
children (not provided above).
…………………………………………………………………………………..……………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………..…………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
The Second Set: For Students
Dear respondents,
I am Kuenzang Losel, a trainee at Royal Institute of Management, pursuing Post Graduate Diploma in
Public Administration. I am conducting a research on “Domestic Violence and its Impacts on
Children’s Development in Thimphu” for the partial fulfillment of the course. The data collected for
the study through this questionnaire shall purely be for academic purpose. Your identity will not be
disclosed and confidentiality will be maintained at any cost.
Thanking you
Kuenzang Losel
[email protected]
+97517799916
PGDPA, RIM, Semtokha
I.
Personal Information
Name (optional): …………………………………………………………………..
Gender:
Male
Female
Age: ………………………….
Class: ………………………...
School: ………….....................
II. Please tick against each statement given below. Every questions carry options that enables you
to best describe the topic under discussion.
1. Are you a victim of domestic violence?
Yes
No
2. Did you see domestic violence in the past one year?
Yes
No
If “YES”:
PGDPA, 150211
A. Where did it happen?
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
Home
Neighbour’s place
Others
B. What type of violence did you witness?
Physical Assault
Verbal Assault
C. How did you react to the problem?
Shout for help
Tried to stop
Kept quiet
D. How did you feel when you witnessed the violence?
Depressed
Sad
Angry
Any others (Specify): ………………………………………….
E. What was the main cause of the violence you witnessed?
Alcohol
Marital Affairs
Children
Any others (Specify): …………………………………………………
Part B.
1. Do you suffer from feelings of loss and confusion when you witness fights between your parents
at home?
Yes
No
If “YES”:
How long did the feelings remain with you?
One day
One week
One month
One year
2. Are you able to sleep well when your parents fight at home?
Yes
No
3. Do you have nightmares (frightening dreams) when your parents fight at home?
Yes
No
4. Do you feel angry and frustrated when your parents fight at home?
Yes
No
If “YES”:
A. Did you fight with your friends because of your anger?
Yes
No
B. How long does the anger last?
One day
One week
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One month
One year
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
5. How often do you have problems at school because of domestic violence?
Sometimes
Regularly
Always
6. Did you consume alcohol and abuse drugs because of violence at home?
Yes
No
7. Do you fight with your friends because of violence at home?
Yes
No
A. Did you fight with your friends in the last six months?
Yes
No
B. What was the main reason of fighting with your friends?
Specify: ………………………………………………………………………………….
8. Do you suffer from sicknesses and diseases when your parents fight at home?
Yes
No
If “YES”:
A. What type of sicknesses or diseases did you suffer from?
Stomach ache
Headache
Dizziness
Others (Specify): …………………………………………………………..
9. Do you feel tired and lazy because of violence at home?
Yes
No
10. Do you get abused/injured when your parents fight at home?
Yes
No
If “YES”:
A. What type of violence did you experience?
Physical
Verbal
11. Do you abuse and harm yourself when your parents fight at home?
Yes
No
12. Do get time to focus on your personal hygiene (brushing your teeth, taking bath, cleanliness) after
you witness violence at home?
Yes
No
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Impacts of Domestic Violence on Children’s Development
13. Do you avoid spending time with your family when there is fight at home?
Yes
No
14. Do you involve in other activities when you witness a fight somewhere or at home?
Yes
No
15. Can you concentrate well in the class and take part in co-curricular activities after you witness
violence at home?
Yes
No
16. Because of domestic violence at home, are you able to study and score well in the exams?
Yes
No
A. How much do you score in the exams?
40% – 50%
51% - 60%
61% - 70%
71% - 80%
Please write down any other impacts of domestic violence on children’s development which is not
covered in the questionnaire above.
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME AND PATIENCE.
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