Child to parent violence : risk factors for parental abuse in parent-child relationships

Abstract

Child-to-parent violence is a subtype of family violence where the child exercises power and control over the parents. This phenomenon seems to have become increasingly predominant recently. The aim of this dissertation is to identify the risk factors that could trigger CPV and to attempt to understand the offender's actions from the experiences of professionals. This research also tries to shed light on the support, interventions and preventative measures that are aimed at reducing CPV. The researcher adopted a qualitative approach whereby in-depth interviews were used among five professionals (psychologists, social workers and police inspectors) working in this field. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data gathered from the interviews. The findings are discussed and evaluated with previous literature review. The research indicated a growing trend of CPV with the main risk factors identified being witnessing domestic violence, exposure to child abuse, poor upbringing, lack of communication and attachment. Individual and social factors can also, be contributing factors to prompt such abuse, including mental health and behaviour disorders, substance abuse, relationship with aggressive peers and exposed to media violence. An analysis of the gender differences of the perpetrator and the victim as well as the type of abuse committed was discussed in this research. Support for families who seek help is important. Family therapy and psychological services are among the support programmes provided. Preventive measures and awareness incentives are essential to reduce the cases of this phenomenon. One main recommendation was the implementation of school programmes for both the children and the parents. Workshops aimed at tackling issues regarding abusive relationships are vital. The involvement of current affair programmes might be required also, to raise awareness that child to parent violent exists and to eliminate the taboo attached with CPV.