Increased Risk for Family Violence During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

* Abbreviations: COVID-19 — : coronavirus disease CPS — : child protective services Although the public health benefits of social distancing, isolation, and quarantines are well-established and essential for reducing risk of transmitting the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), the disease caused by the novel coronavirus (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2), there are also likely consequences for these practices when considering the impact of violence in the home. Reports of increased domestic violence after quarantine orders in China have revealed the interpersonal violence risks of isolation. Indeed, in a recent review of the psychological impact of quarantine published in The Lancet , the authors indicated increased anger, confusion, and posttraumatic stress symptoms, as well as evidence of increases in substance use, in those subjected to quarantine.1 These kinds of dysregulated emotions and substance use can increase violent behavior, especially within the family. Children’s exposure to intimate partner violence, whether directly witnessed or overheard, is harmful and may lead to posttraumatic stress disorder and other serious emotional and behavioral problems.2 Furthermore, intimate partner violence and child abuse often co-occur,3 … Address correspondence to Kathryn L. Humphreys, PhD, EdM, Department of Psychology and Human Development, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37203. E-mail: k.humphreys{at}vanderbilt.edu