The Everyday Lives of Children Who Have Experienced Domestic Abuse

Discussions on children affected by domestic abuse often focus on trauma, risk and social work interventions, leaving little room to explore their everyday lives beyond victimhood. This groundbreaking book challenges dominant narratives by drawing on an 18-month multimodal ethnography with children in an inner London borough.

The Everyday Lives of Children Who Have Experienced Domestic Abuse by Brenda Herbert offers a unique perspective by shifting the focus to the experiences of the children themselves. Through a deep and extended engagement, the book highlights the creative and resilient ways in which children manage their circumstances.

This insightful study not only brings attention to their struggles but also celebrates the agency of children, encouraging readers to rethink common assumptions about childhood and domestic abuse. Herbert's work is essential reading for social workers, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the complexities of children’s lives in challenging environments.