Centering Youth’s Perspectives on Aggression toward Family/Caregivers in Childhood & Adolescence to Inform Best Practices in Supportive Service Provision in Canada

Aggression toward family/caregivers in childhood and adolescence (AFCCA) is a serious issue that impacts all family members in complex and interrelated ways. Despite its extensive and long-term consequences, there is limited research and even scarcer supports available for young people and their families affected by this form of family violence. Expanding on a pilot project that explored parental perspectives of AFCCA in Canada, this study provides a youth-centered perspective to create impactful changes in support services that are informed by children’s rights and family-focused approaches. A national survey and several follow-up interviews will be carried out to assess the needs of youth involved in AFCCA, as well as the impacts on their siblings. Through collaboration with young people and families, and with the support of Adopt4Life, this research will help to establish the social, emotional, and mental health needs of families and provide recommendations for improving support and prevention strategies.

Faculty Supervisor:

Christine Gervais;Elisa Romano

Student:

Partner:

Adopt4Life

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology

University:

University of Ottawa

Program: