Adolescent to Parent Violence
Adolescent to parent violence and abuse is any behaviour used by a young person to control, dominate or coerce parents. It is intended to threaten and intimidate and puts family safety at risk. APVA can be referred to in a number of different ways, including ‘parent abuse’ or ‘child to parent abuse’ (CPV).
APVA is likely to involve a pattern of behaviour, which can include physical violence and other types of abusive behaviours towards a parent (including damage to property, emotional abuse, and economic/financial abuse). Violence and abuse can occur together or separately.
Some families experiencing APVA have a history of domestic violence and abuse. In other cases, the violence may be linked to other behavioural problems, substance abuse, mental health problems, or learning difficulties.
As well as living in fear of assault, parents who are abused by their children may experience feelings of shame and blame and can be reluctant to report the problem.
It is important that both the individual being abused and the young person who is using abusive behaviour receive the right support.
Useful organisations
- Parental Education Growth Support (PEGS) Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â
- Action for Children
- Live Fear Free
- Respect