When Father Kills Mother

By combining knowledge about bereavement with that on post-traumatic stress disorder, this work assists all those who must deal with the trauma and suffering experienced by child witnesses of domestic violence.

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Children bereaved by the death of one parent at the hands of the other, almost always the father, in effect lose both parents. The children are then uprooted, losing their home and, quite often, their familiar routine and essential relationships. The combined effects of trauma, dislocation and loss are dramatic, but little has been written so far about such tragedies and the implications for everyone concerned in the future of affected children. The authors of When Father Kills Mother all have special experience of treating such children. They discuss the importance of debriefing children immediately after theu have witnessed violence and indicate what therapeutic help will be of most value to both the children and their carers. They examine the legal aspect of the tragedy, not only the civil rights of children and their role as witnesses, but the role of social workers, guardians and courts as decision-makers for the children. Difficult practical problems are all considered from the children's point of view as the authors seek answers to such questions as: Where should the children live? How should their future be planned? Should they see their fathers in prison?
Can it ever be ethically right for a parent who has killed to resume care of the children? When Father Kills Mother will be invaluable to psychiatrists, social workers, doctors and lawyers and to all those who come into contact with children who have experienced violence between the adults responsible for their well-being.