This article examines how different forms of childhood exposure to domestic violence—such as physical harm, threats, property damage, and coercive control—are linked to mental disorders and health risk behaviours in adulthood. Using data from the Australian Child Maltreatment Study, the research found strong associations between coercive control and PTSD, anxiety, and between property damage and severe alcohol use disorder. The findings highlight the urgent need for trauma-informed interventions and stronger protections for children.
