Kids often overlooked as victims of domestic violence - KCBD NewsChannel 11 Lubbock

By Kristin Beerman | email

Edited by Jon Bush | email 

LUBBOCK, TX (KCBD) - Children are often overlooked as victims of domestic violence.  On HealthWise at Five, Dr. Jeff Wherry, a psychologist at Texas Tech, says even if a child is not harmed, but watches abuse among others in the family, he or she still suffers.

"Often times, children will be hyper-vigilant, they're constantly scanning the environment and they have sleep difficulties. They may be irritable and they may have an exaggerated startle response often times too," said Dr. Wherry, a psychologist at Texas Tech. 

To report possible child abuse, call the Children's Advocacy Center of the South Plains at (806) 740-0251.

©2009 KCBD NewsChannel 11.  All rights reserved.  This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.