P025. Cumulative Adverse Experiences in Children Who Have Experienced Domestic Violence in Portugal

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Abstract

Introduction: Domestic violence is an Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE) that often coexists with other adversities. This study aimed to identify the cumulative ACEs (i.e., type and number) among children and adolescents who have experienced domestic violence in Portugal.
Method: Data were collected in care structures or shelters for domestic violence victims. Legal guardians and participants gave informed consent. The International Trauma Exposure Measure for Children and Adolescents (ITEM-CA) was used for data collection. The sample comprised 33 children (6-12 years old) and 23 adolescents (12-18 years old), primarily Portuguese (75%) and female (66%).
Results: The results showed a high cumulative exposure to ACEs. In childhood, 3.6% of participants reported no ACEs, 12.5% reported between one and four ACEs, and 83.9% reported more than four ACEs. In adolescence, 8.7% reported no ACEs, 62.1% reported between one and four ACEs, and 65.2% reported more than four ACEs. The most reported ACEs were related to the family environment and caregivers (e.g., intrafamily violence, loss of a loved one, parental separation, substance abuse, emotional and physical abuse). Peer violence (e.g., bullying) was also frequently reported.
Discussion: These preliminary findings are alarming, confirm previous studies indicating, and reinforce the concern about the overlap of ACEs in vulnerable populations. The co-occurrence of multiple adversities underscores the need for systematic assessment and intervention to mitigate their impact on children’s health and well-being.
Conclusion: The high prevalence of multiple ACEs in children and adolescents who have experienced domestic violence highlights the urgent need for trauma-informed policies and interventions. Preventive strategies and psychological and social support are crucial to addressing these adversities for the children and adolescents affected, as well as their families, caregivers, and professionals.

Keywords: Domestic violence; Children and Adolescents; Adverse Childhood Experiences; Cumulative; Health.

Authors

• Virgínia Alves, Psychology Research Centre (CIPsi), School of Psychology, University of Minho

• Mariana Gonçalves, University of Minho