Family Violence Prevention

Presentation by Rona Brown, Family Violence Consultant, PEI
for Birchwood Staff

An informed, sensitive and respectful response to family violence requires an understanding of the issue without judgment. Family violence can be found in any neighborhood. Most abuse in the the home is hidden. The spectrum of abusive behavior ranges from insults through to life-threatening injuries and even murder. Those affected have many reasons to keep it secret, including fear, self-blame, embarrassment and concern for legal consequences. Children living with violence will actively interpret, predict, assess their roles in causing the violence, worry about consequences, engage in problem solving and/or take measures to protect themselves or their siblings, both physically and emotionally. As educators, knowing the signs and patterns enhances an effective response to children, youth, and their families. Ms. Brown's presentation highlighted the impacts of childhood exposure to family violence and had a powerful message of hope.