The Link Between Childhood Domestic Violence and Adult Criminality

• In Event: Experiences and Consequences of Domestic Violence Victimization

Abstract

This study intends to investigate the physical, emotional, and psychological effects of domestic abuse on adolescents. These effects may influence adult criminal behavior and recidivism rates in the future. Evaluating arrest rates between those exposed to these traumas versus those who haven't can gauge the extent of which adverse childhood experiences can promote criminality. Additionally, this research can aid in assessing which prevention strategies are best designed and implemented for these targeted young adults. The use of several studies, such as "An Update of the Cycle of Violence" provided by the National Institute of Justice, will aid in understanding the consequences and risk factors associated with the development of adult criminality from the early ages of 5-18. Furthermore, a Google forum was created for students at Virginia State University to further research whether any instances of childhood domestic violence trauma had caused times of delinquency or distress in later adulthood, specifically ages 18-24.

Authors

• Aisha Ahmed, Virginia State University

• Ifeoma Okoye, Virginia State University