A safe childhood for every child: why research into violence matters
Sophia Backhaus studies the lasting impacts of violence on children and what can be done about it
19 November 2024
Children who experience violence face a far higher risk of drug use, anxiety, depression, and even premature death
Support in parenting
Backhaus immediately points out the importance of studying this topic: ‘Children who experience violence face a far higher risk of issues later in life, such as drug use, anxiety, depression, and even premature death.’ She has studied violence against children for many years, starting her work at Oxford and now continuing at the University of Amsterdam. ‘We research how to help parents raise their children without using violence. For example, we equip parents with tools to discipline their children without physical or emotional punishment. We have found that this type of support can effectively reduce violence against children, regardless of a family’s social or economic background.’
However, Backhaus notes that this support may not last forever: ‘Research also shows that the impact of these interventions tends to lessen over time.’
Those exposed to violence are more likely to continue the pattern with their own children
A risk for the future
Violence against children not only harms the children themselves, it also affects future generations, Backhaus explains. ‘It can lead to challenges in education and employment. Additionally, it can lead to a cycle of violence, as those exposed to violence are more likely to continue the pattern with their own children.’ Plenty of reason to study this area and ensure the research can be effectively applied in practice. Backhaus, for example, contributed to this by working for the WHO.
Global guidelines
Backhaus helped the WHO create parenting guidelines to prevent violence against children. ‘The WHO guidelines are based on extensive research, integrating both science and practice. I co-led the team that collected all the evidence and also helped write the final guidelines.’
Ultimately, WHO guidelines should help reduce violence against children worldwide
Conference with 120 countries
Of course, these guidelines must then reach the right people. That is why the first global conference on violence against children was held in November. Backhaus explains: ‘Experts and policymakers from over 120 different countries attended. At this conference, the WHO promoted the guidelines and shared a handbook that can help governments to put the recommendations into practice. Ultimately, these guidelines should help to reduce violence against children worldwide.’
Children’s rights are still not guaranteed
The fact that these guidelines are still needed, shows why World Children’s Day remains relevant. ‘Many countries now acknowledge that childhood is a crucial period where safety and support are essential. However, children’s voices are not always heard, and their rights are still not guaranteed everywhere. It is essential to raise awareness of this each year.’
The more we know about the different forms of violent behaviour, the better we can support both children and parents
Different forms of violence
Backhaus will keep on studying this subject and has a clear goal: ‘I want to find out which types of violence against children are most common and which have the most impact. The more we know about the different forms of violent behaviour, the better we can support both children and parents.’