Intimate partner violence and social functioning during middle childhood
The project aims to investigate the relationship between children's early exposure to IPV and their social functioning during middle childhood, and the role of family factors in buffering or exacerbating the potential impact of IPV on social functioning.
The project is made up of three studies. The first two studies will use data from the Mothers' and Young People's Study to determine the extent to which children's exposure to IPV in infancy is associated with social functioning during middle childhood, and the mediating role of maternal depression and parenting.
The third study will take a qualitative approach to determine other factors that may be protective and mitigate the risk of poor social development of children with experiences of IPV.
What is already known?
Intimate partner violence (IPV) exposure during childhood can negatively impact on children's physical and psychological outcomes, along with their relationships across the lifespan. Early childhood is a vital period of development where children are particularly vulnerable to the negative impacts of IPV exposure.
Adversity in early life, including exposure to IPV can have harmful effects on the development of important brain structures such as the limbic system and the development of attachment bonds. While research has documented the relationship between early childhood IPV exposure and emotional-behavioural outcomes, there is a need for further research to understand how exposure to IPV during early childhood can affect children's social development and functioning.
What this study adds
The project will provide new evidence about the potential long-term impacts of early life IPV exposure on children's social functioning during middle childhood, as well as identifying potential protective factors that mitigate the risk of poor social development.
The findings may provide insight to inform early intervention supporting children's social development.
What’s next?
The project is currently in progress, and set to be finished by 2025.
Where can I read more?
Intimate partner violence exposure during infancy and social functioning in middle childhood: An Australian mother and child cohort study
Schulz ML, Wood CE, Fogarty A, Brown SJ, Gartland D, Giallo R. Child Development. 2023;00,:1-14.
