Children's Observations of Violence: II. Clinical Implications for Children's Mental Health Professionals

Abstract

This paper discusses the clinical implications of our current knowledge about children exposed to violence. It highlights a number of typical case scenarios in which mental health professionals have responded inadequately to the issue of violence. Alternative strategies for assessing and treating children exposed to violence are offered which have both therapeutic and preventative value. Finally, a family based assessment and treatment approach, which may be appropriate in a number of cases, is suggested.