Understanding Domestic Violence to Ensure the Best Interest of Children
Program Planners / Moderators:
G. Gail Stricklin, Esq., Oklahoma City
Ginger Decoteau, MS, M.Ed., Director, Community Learning Council
Program Description: Children have varied responses to domestic violence and professionals working in this field have many options to assist in their recovery. Eighty to ninety percent of children can remember the details of abusive events, even at a young age. Research confirms that children do not need to see domestic violence to be affected by it. Even when abuse is silent, as is often the case with coercive control, children can sense tension and fear. They know when it happens. This workshop examines the link between domestic violence and the emotional and behavioral trauma symptoms children exhibit as a result of this crime.
How children and adults recover from domestic abuse depends on several factors. One essential factor is a strong support system that includes healthy adult role-models, both personal and professional. During this workshop, participants will hear from licensed therapists and attorneys as they discuss their role and the steps they take (individually and together) to help children and non-offending parents find a safe place so they can work toward a healthy future.
Agenda
Defining Domestic Violence/Intimate Partner Violence
Amy England-Smith, LMFT, LADC Oklahoma City
Introduction to Childhood Exposure
Facts and Myths w Statisticsw Prenatal Exposure
The Cycle of Abuse
Intergenerational Violence w Relational Patterns w Health Outcomes
Behavioral Characteristics of Children Who Experience Domestic Violence, (cont’d)
Factors that Influence Children’s Reactions w Immediate Responses w Long Term Effects w Recognizing Internal/External Symptoms w Reactions by Age Group
Supporting Recovery
Recognizing Internal/External Symptoms w Trauma Informed Responses w Assessment Tools w Therapeutic Interventions w Safety Planning
Statutory Provisions
G. Gail Stricklin, Esq., Oklahoma City
Best Interests of Children (ethics)
Donna Mathews, Esq., Chief Operating Officer, DVIS, Tulsa
Richard Stevens, Ethics Counsel, OBA
Lethality Risks and Safety Planning for Attorneys
Jacqueline Steyn, LPC, Oklahoma City
Disclaimer: All views or opinions expressed by any presenter during the course of this CLE is that of the presenter alone and not an opinion of the Oklahoma Bar Association, the employers, or affiliates of the presenters unless specifically stated. Additionally, any materials, including the legal research, are the product of the individual contributor, not the Oklahoma Bar Association. The Oklahoma Bar Association makes no warranty, express or implied, relating to the accuracy or content of these materials.