THE BRIDGE

The domestic violence and sexual assault service provider for Dunn and Pepin Counties.

Children and Domestic Violence

Children exposed to domestic violence suffer many of the same effects as adult victims of violence. Fear and tension (walking on eggshells), isolation, blame, anger, chaos and uncertainty, and a love/hate relationship to care givers are all common characteristics of children living with domestic violence. Children often have to grow up quickly in order to cope with the stress and fear of living in a violent home, acting very mature for their age. These children generally have distrust in adults and believe that they are in some way to blame for the violence. Typically, children grow up to model the violent relationships they witnessed in childhood, either becoming abuser or the abused. These children never learn what healthy relationships are, leading them to become the next generation in the cycle of abuse.

The Children’s Program at the Bridge addresses the prevention of cross-generation transference of violent behavior and attitudes. Children who have experienced or witnessed domestic violence receive help in processing the experience and help in the healing process. Children who are victims of sexual abuse or physical abuse are evaluated and referrals are made to Dunn County Human Services and counselors trained in child abuse. Child clients may receive individual or group support, assertiveness training, social skills training and help to learn how to resolve conflicts in non-violent ways. Child clients receive assistance in developmental and educational lapses. Older children may also receive assistance with preparation for employment. Parents do not need to be clients for children to receive services. Referrals are made to Stout Counseling Services, Dunn County Public Nurses, Dunn or Pepin County Human Services, AIDS Resource Center, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Head Start, Hmong American Community Association, and other community agencies as needed. Individualized plans and referrals are developed in connection with client’s school. Follow-up services are provided as necessary.

Children of Domestic Violence Group meets on Thursday evening 6:00 - 7:15 pm.

For more information about attending group or other children's services at the Bridge, please contact: faadvocate@thebridgetohope.com or call 235-9074 or 1-800-924-9918

No one deserves to be abused.  1-800-924-9918  We are here to help.  Free & Confidential Services