The article by Megan H. Bair-Merritt, MD, MSCE, from the Division of General Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, discusses the prevalence, risk factors, and impacts of intimate partner violence (IPV) on children. Key points include: 1. **Prevalence and Risk Factors**: IPV affects 1/4 to 1/3 of women in the United States over their lifetime, with certain demographic factors increasing the risk, such as young age, lower socioeconomic status, mental health issues, and substance abuse. 2. **Child Exposure**: About 15 million children in the U.S. are exposed to IPV annually, with severe cases being more common in families with young children. Childhood exposure can occur through witnessing violence or its aftermath. 3. **Health Impacts**: Children exposed to IPV are more likely to experience adverse social-emotional health outcomes, including developmental delays, depression, anxiety, peer aggression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). They also face higher rates of physical injuries and healthcare use. 4. **Screening and Response**: Pediatric providers are encouraged to screen for IPV during well-child visits. Screening can help identify and intervene early, but there are concerns about the risks and benefits, especially when young children are present. Providers should use sensitive and behavioral questions to assess safety and provide resources. 5. **Management and Reporting**: If IPV is disclosed, providers should support the victim, assess safety, and provide resources. Pediatric providers may be mandated reporters of child abuse or neglect, depending on state laws. Safety planning and referral to appropriate services are crucial. The article emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing IPV in pediatric settings to protect children and promote their well-being.The article by Megan H. Bair-Merritt, MD, MSCE, from the Division of General Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, discusses the prevalence, risk factors, and impacts of intimate partner violence (IPV) on children. Key points include: 1. **Prevalence and Risk Factors**: IPV affects 1/4 to 1/3 of women in the United States over their lifetime, with certain demographic factors increasing the risk, such as young age, lower socioeconomic status, mental health issues, and substance abuse. 2. **Child Exposure**: About 15 million children in the U.S. are exposed to IPV annually, with severe cases being more common in families with young children. Childhood exposure can occur through witnessing violence or its aftermath. 3. **Health Impacts**: Children exposed to IPV are more likely to experience adverse social-emotional health outcomes, including developmental delays, depression, anxiety, peer aggression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). They also face higher rates of physical injuries and healthcare use. 4. **Screening and Response**: Pediatric providers are encouraged to screen for IPV during well-child visits. Screening can help identify and intervene early, but there are concerns about the risks and benefits, especially when young children are present. Providers should use sensitive and behavioral questions to assess safety and provide resources. 5. **Management and Reporting**: If IPV is disclosed, providers should support the victim, assess safety, and provide resources. Pediatric providers may be mandated reporters of child abuse or neglect, depending on state laws. Safety planning and referral to appropriate services are crucial. The article emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing IPV in pediatric settings to protect children and promote their well-being.