This free, printable poster highlights how children living with domestic abuse are profoundly affected — even when they do not witness a violent incident directly.
Why it matters
Children often hear raised voices, angry tones or silence after a conflict. They may pick up on tension, mood changes or signs of distress — even if adults believe noise or arguments are hidden.
They see fear, stress, bruises or damage in the home. They notice when adults avoid each other, hide emotions, or act differently.
They feel the atmosphere: fear, confusion, uncertainty, guilt, self-blame, and long-term stress. They may struggle to sleep, suffer physical symptoms (e.g. headaches, stomachaches), become clingy or withdrawn, or show emotional or behavioural difficulties.
The poster underlines that children do not need to witness physical violence to be harmed — tension, fear and emotional pain in the home affect them deeply.
