Cummings, J.G., Pepler, D.J., & Moore, T.E. (1999). Behavior problems in children exposed to wife abuse: Gender differences. Journal of Family Violence, 14, 133-155.
             The purpose of this research is to focus on behavior problems that children witnesses of domestic violence often experience as a result of it. It targeted gender differences when evaluating family aggression or other conduct problems that children ages 6-12 from violent homes will often than not exhibit. This study can help identify at risk youth and help provide shelter staff better serve the clients. It is also important to understand that children are often referred to as the "silent victims" of this unfortunate abuse, so research that aims to provide more knowledge on the effects of domestic violence on children is invaluable. It should also be noted that children who live at shelters are not only dealing with the repercussions of witnessing abuse, but are also transitioning into a new lifestyle while staying at the shelter.
             In previous research regarding the effects of domestic violence on children it was found that 34% of boys and 20% of girls who witness parental abuse will develop adjustment problems that require clinical assistance (Jaffe et al 1990). In another study, Rutter and Garmezy (1983) found that "latency-aged boys" are more likely than girls to display undercontrolled or acting out problems." They also found that boys are more likely than girls to be treated for in a mental health setting. In another important study conducted in 1988, Zaslow found that boys are more negatively affected than girls in cases of divorces. It is generally assumed that boys are more susceptible to developing behavior problems, however, recent studies are challenging that belief. In this present study it is hypothesized that girls are more likely to develop greater maladjustment problems than boys who lived in domestic violen
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