Theorising inter-generational violence between children and parents: A qualitative study in Wales

Aim: To theorise the problem of inter-generational violence between children and their parents to inform future intervention development and evaluation.

Background: CPV is a salient social care area of concern and is highly prevalent in the UK. Charities estimate that figures of CPV are increasing and have been particularly intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic, with CPV incidents rising by 70% from 1st April 2019 to 31st May 2020. However, due to the hidden nature of CPV, instances are likely to be significantly under-reported.

CPV has been associated with a number of adverse child experiences including domestic violence and abuse in the home, which disproportionately affects children in care. Exposure to higher rates of adverse child experiences relates to poorer outcomes later in life, and evidence suggests greater inequality in Wales than England. Children who engage in CPV are also more likely to present with broader patterns of antisocial behaviour, which are highly linked to contact with social care services. CPV is also associated with negative physical and psychological health consequences, as well as significant economic costs.

Despite the adverse health, social and economic sequalae, there remains a paucity of research in this area. Current research focuses solely on England, with a significant lack of evidence and understanding in Wales, despite the highest rates of children in care. Parents and practitioners have raised the need for clear and specific policy around CPV. Additionally, a recent inter-disciplinary workshop, establishing a future social and public health agenda for Domestic Violence and Abuse (DVA) research in Wales (https://decipher.uk.net/hosting-a-dva-research-workshop-online-what-did-we-learn/) identified understanding CPV as one of the key priorities in Wales.

Methodology: The proposed research questions will be addressed through three inter-rated work packages (WP). A scoping review with stakeholder integration will seek to understand how CPV is defined, and how its determinants and consequences are theorised and operationalised. The TRANSFER model will be used to explore applicability in the Welsh Context (WP1). Creative and visual methodology will be used with professionals, children and young people and parents to explore how CPV is currently managed within the Welsh social care, education and health context, as well as what is needed to prevent and manage CPV (WP2). Finally, data will be analysed and synthesised using the MRC framework to theorise the problem of CPV. Findings will identify parameters of potential intervention components for a community-based response (WP3).