Effectiveness of Interventions to Promote Well-being among Children Exposed to Partner Violence: A Systematic Review

• In Event: Evidence-Based Crime Policy III

Abstract

Children exposure to intimate partner violence (IPV), or domestic violence, is a pervasive public health problem. An estimated 8 to 15 million children in the US and 275 million children worldwide are exposed to IPV each year. The consequences can be severe and long-lasting, with impacts on physiological, psychosocial, and physical functioning. Documentation of the magnitude and burden of children’s exposure to IPV has been met with an increased interest in the development of intervention strategies to protect this vulnerable population and promote well-being. A recent scan identified 23 unique programs designed to improve outcomes for children exposed to IPV currently being implemented across the US. To date, however, no systematic review has been conducted to synthesize the state of this burgeoning literature. Our primary goal is to systematically examine the available evidence for the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions for promoting well-being (e.g., mental and behavioral health) following children’s exposure to IPV. Our secondary goal is to examine whether interventions with particular characteristics (e.g., setting) are more effective than others in promoting well-being. Through this process, we will identify gaps in the current scientific literature and highlight important areas for future research to build the evidence base.

Authors

• Natasha E. Latzman, RTI International

• Cecilia Casanueva, RTI International

• Julia Brinton, RTI International

• Valerie L. Forman-Hoffman, RTI International