AbstractsPsychology

Domestic violence affects families from all cultural backgrounds, socioeconomic classes, communities, and ages. Much research has focused on treatment for victims; however the children who witness the violence run the risk of facing lasting emotional, psychological and behavioral difficulties. Recent reports of increased rates of children witnessing domestic violence cannot be ignored. The purpose of this project is to propose a Trauma Focused ??? Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) group for adolescents and their non-offending mothers or caregivers who have been exposed to domestic violence. There are two provided guidebooks in this project, one for the adolescents and one for their non-offending parents. There are outlines and materials for all of the sessions that include main themes, goals, interventions, activities, and worksheets. Each group session is geared towards increasing the self-esteem and self-concept of adolescents and their non-offending parents. A main objective of this group is to also minimize the trauma-related symptoms that these adolescents may experience as a result of witnessing domestic violence. Each group session is geared towards aiding group members find a sense of peace and hope for the future.