Imposed and Self‐Imposed Isolation Among Children and Young People Who Have Grown Up in Domestic Abuse

ABSTRACT Research about the effects of isolation on women living with domestic abuse (DA) shows that women's mental health and well‐being is negatively affected by the consequences of isolation while enduring DA. Less attention has been given to the effects of isolation for children's health and well‐being when experiencing DA. Based on the voices of young people who grew up in DA, the qualitative study that is the basis for this article asked young people about aspects of their childhood and what helped them to cope despite DA in their family of origin. The study found that methods of control used by the abuser led to children being isolated. At other times, children living with DA reported isolating themselves due to the effects of living with DA. Utilizing Vygotsky's sociocultural theory, children's isolation caused by DA is examined. The effects on children's social, emotional and educational well‐being are explored, and potential social work roles in helping children overcome such isolation are presented. We focus particularly on young people's call for connection with peers from similar backgrounds.