Psychopathological sequelae and posttraumatic stress disorder in children of victims of intimate partner violence against women

Abstract

The aim of this research study was: to analyze psychopathological symptomatology and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in children of victims of intimate partner violence against women (IPVAW) compared with children who have not suffered this type of violence; to analyze the following two objectives: relationship between PTSD and psychopathological symptomatology in children victims of IPVAW; and to determine to what extent PTSD can predict the presence of psychopathological symptomatology in this population. The participants consisted of 60 children aged 7 to 11 years who completed behavioral assessment instruments and two valid and reliable measures of PTSD. The children showed behavioral and emotional difficulties which severely hinder their capacity to adapt to their surroundings and may affect their capacity to respond adequately to a range of everyday situations. They also showed symptoms of PTSD. This study highlighting the need to design intervention strategies aimed at alleviating and modifying the problem areas in this population.