The impact of domestic violence on children in Trinidad and Tobago

ABSTRACT

Using document analysis and discourse analysis approaches, this study addresses the impact of domestic violence on children in Trinidad and Tobago. With the growing incidence of domestic violence in the country, much attention has been given to the primary parties involved in the abuse - the abused woman and the perpetrator while very little attention has been given to the children witnessing it. The experience of the authors as clinicians, brought us into contact with children who suffer tremendously in these situations and heightened our awareness of the absence of scholarly inquiry on this phenomenon. This inquiry is intended to highlight the telling impact that domestic violence has on children. In addition, we highlight the perceptions of therapists who work with children and families about the adequacy of the services available to this population in Trinidad and Tobago (AU)