Witnessing episodes of violence between one’s parents can affect the emotional, physical and cognitive development of minors. This is real abuse, even when it is believed that children are too young to understand. Sabrina Brondolo, a psychiatrist and psychotherapist for children and adolescents, confirms this: “According to some studies, the brain activity of children recognizes, even during sleep, the voices of adults who are arguing and this impacts their mental development”.
It is therefore right to consider these children victims of violence, not simply victims of witnessed violence. A paradigm shift that was supported by the publication of a guide, presented on Friday. Its purpose, Myriam Proce, institutional coordinator of domestic violence, tells us, is to “bring clarity”.
A reference tool that will be available to all professionals dealing with situations of domestic violence: “Only with an overall vision and close collaboration can we be efficient,” concludes lawyer Maria Galliani.