Children who experience violence at home often grow to expect humiliation, disrespect, and aggression in their close relationships. They may resort to using violence as a means of problem-solving and controlling others. This environment teaches them to get their needs met through threats and intimidation, leading to a tendency to blame others for their problems. Additionally, they may struggle with effective communication skills and fail to learn how to express anger in a constructive way, often developing poor self-esteem as a result.

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Such children might find themselves isolated, unable to trust others, and taking on adult responsibilities by intervening in their parents' conflicts or caring for younger siblings. This strain can lead to physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, ulcers, stuttering, bedwetting, and issues with sleep and eating. They may grapple with guilt, believing the violence is their fault, and may try to be "extra good" in hopes of preventing further incidents. Living in a chaotic and fearful environment, these children often feel powerless to stop the abuse they witness, which can result in long-term struggles with depression and flashbacks of traumatic events. They may withdraw, deny their feelings, or turn to substances like alcohol and drugs as coping mechanisms, ultimately living in a state of constant fear.