Child to Parent Abuse is where a child (of any age) displays repeated abusive behaviours towards a parent. This abuse may be physical, verbal, economic, digital, coercive or even sexual.
Child to Parent Abuse is often misunderstood and complex, parents often don’t feel able to speak out around the abuse due to stigma and others not understanding the abuse they are facing is in fact domestic abuse. There is often an element of blame and shame faced by parents as well as isolation with many professionals still blaming parents and directing them to parenting courses or behavioural management programmes.
Statistics show that behaviours commonly start before the child is six, with abusive behaviours continuing after they turn 18 and into adulthood. 2 in five of those affected do not feel able to keep their family safe, and around 70% have had to reduce their hours or leave work completely. This highlights the significant impact Child to Parent Abuse has on a family and why there is a need for multiagency support and awareness to be made.
The abusive behaviours also often target others in the family home, including siblings and pets. Even if not directly targeted, siblings often withdraw from the family in response – for example, by spending more time outside the home or by withdrawing into their bedrooms. 36% of those displaying abusive behaviours have also harmed or even killed a family pet or other animal.
- Warrington DA Hub – the service offers a lead that specialises in Child to Parent Abuse. Call 01925 243359
- Parental Education Growth Support (PEGS) - Founded as a response to the lack of support services specifically designed to help parents, carers and guardians experiencing Child to Parent Abuse.
- Respect - Respect offers support to professionals to respond effectively to young people who use violence and abuse towards their parents. They deliver training and workforce development.
- Family Lives - confidential helpline and web chat, offers live online chat, email support or a confidential helpline, for parents experiencing any form of stress or difficulty in their lives. (During the night, calls are redirected to the Samaritans helpline)