Violence by children against parents and grandparents is Britain’s hidden abuse, often misunderstood or ignored – until too late. Pioneering research aims to bring it into the open
You d walk out if your husband hit you - you can t when it s your child
By Sarah McDermott
Most parents never have to worry about being attacked by a violent child, but if it happens, they face a dilemma. They can t just walk out - and they may fear that seeking help will have repercussions for their child. Research suggests the problem is often hidden, and far more common than we imagine.
Last summer, 10-year-old Aidan decided he was going to kill the family dog. He lured her behind the sofa with a sausage before putting his hands over her muzzle and around her neck.