Adolescence: Violence against mothers in
childhood is associated with on-going
depression in adolescent girls. This can lead
to acceptance of violence, not believing they
can change their circumstances. Boys tend to
develop conduct disorders. Exposure to DV
and associated stresses may make usual
adolescent risk taking behaviours worse and
they may begin to participate in family
violence themselves.
Protective factors are noted as:
• The qualities of the children - e.g. easy
temperament, high cognitive ability
• Good mothering, model assertive and
non-violent response to violence
• Reliable source of support and comfort
(mother, grandparent, teacher)
• Positive peer group
• Reliable adult / neighbour living nearby