Children’s Exposure to Violence between Parents and Delinquent and Risk-taking Behavior during Adolescence

• In Event: Childhood Violence and Future Victimization

Abstract

This study examines adolescents residing in institutions of the Ministry of Welfare and Social Services due to criminal behavior or societal deviation, focusing on the impact of exposure to interparental violence. Using qualitative-archival research, data were coded from 605 personal files of at-risk adolescents institutionalized over two decades. Of these, 54.7% were exposed to interparental violence, while 45.3% were not. A comparative analysis assessed differences in personality traits, self-risk behaviors, offense types, and victimization history. Findings indicate that adolescents exposed to interparental violence exhibited lower interpersonal functioning and self-image, higher extroversion, increased suicidality, and greater involvement in unnoticed sexual behavior, substance abuse, and institutional escape. They committed more sex-, drug-, alcohol-, property-, and violence-related offenses and had higher exposure to parental inappropriate sexual behavior, abuse, and neglect, though no differences were found in experiences of sexual assault. These results suggest that growing up in a violent environment fosters internalization of negative behavioral patterns, impairing relationships and well-being. Early intervention and tailored support programs are crucial to mitigating these effects and reducing long-term harm.

Author

• Yaakov Reuven, Western Galilee College