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Parents hurting each other

Two parents arguing

What is domestic violence?

It’s when one parent fights with and hurts the other parent. It might be screaming, shouting, crying or hitting.

Child in a bubble surrounded by different emotions

It can make you feel a lot of things…

A lot of kids have been through this. They’ve had parents who fight, yell or hit each other. It’s very upsetting for everyone.

Child with shirt that says "BLAME" and arrows pointing towards her

You might feel…

…that it’s your fault and somehow you are to blame. But that’s not true!

Little boy sitting under "guilt" rain cloud

You might feel…

…guilty about not being able to stop your parents fighting. But it’s not up to you to fix things!

Family photograph ripped down the centre

You might worry…

...that if you get help you’ll get into trouble or that it could break up your family. But if you need help don’t be afraid to ask for it.

Girl in room with her dog, can hear arguing next door

Things you can do

It’s hard to know what to do when parents are hurting each other. One thing you can do is go into another room away from the fighting.

Boy sitting on beanbag next to cat, reading and listening to music

Do something that makes you feel better

Try listening to your favourite music through headphones. Or draw, read a book or make a list of things that make you happy.

Find someone to talk to about it

Find somebody you can trust. It might be an older relative or a friend, a Kids Helpline counsellor or a school teacher.

Boy calling Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800

Remember, you’re not alone

We are here to listen and to help. Give us a call, send an email or start a WebChat.


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This content was last reviewed 20/06/2018