60% of Children in Pakistan Face Domestic Violence

A recent survey has revealed a troubling reality in Pakistan: 60% of children in the country experience some form of domestic violence. This finding was released on June 4, observed globally as the International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression, including in Pakistan.

The situation raises serious concerns as more children are becoming direct victims of verbal abuse, yelling, and physical aggression at home. These harmful behaviors are damaging not only their innocence but also affecting their mental development and emotional well-being.

In Lahore’s Shahdara area, the Amina Center—an informal educational institution for underprivileged children—serves as a safe space for many of these young victims. Isha Noor, a student at the center, shared with Express News that many children witness constant fights, shouting, and beatings between their parents. She said such scenes are etched into their minds, leaving them frightened and restless at night. “Children are not toys to be played with and thrown away. We are delicate like flowers. All we need is love and care,” she said.

The center not only focuses on academics but also prioritizes the emotional healing and psychological development of its students. Teacher Muhammad Abid said that they try to avoid harsh discipline and instead connect with the children through kindness, understanding, and games to help them feel secure.

He also pointed out the growing impact of social media, films, and cartoons in promoting aggression among children, as many tend to mimic violent characters and behaviors, often glamorized in popular media.

Psychologists have expressed deep concern over the findings. According to Clinical Psychologist Fatima Tahir, domestic conflicts, financial stress, and parental anger significantly affect children’s personalities. While some children respond with aggression, others become withdrawn and lose confidence.

She explained this pattern as a “psychological chain reaction”: a stressed father vents at home, the mother scolds the children, and the children either internalize this anger or develop behavioral issues. Breaking this cycle, she said, is essential for building a peaceful society.

Sociologists agree that a safe, loving, and peaceful environment is crucial for children to grow into healthy, responsible adults. This requires a joint effort from families, schools, state institutions, and civil society.

The same survey also indicated that many children suffer from educational pressure, with declining school performance and fear-based teaching methods adding to their mental stress.

Experts recommend that every school have a dedicated counselor, and parenting workshops should be held regularly to help families reflect on and improve their behavior.

While life’s harsh realities affect everyone, children’s fragile minds are not built to endure such burdens. As a society, we must recognize that yelling, hitting, or punishing children is not discipline—it is abuse. This day serves as a reminder that if we fail to protect and nurture our children today, we risk further damaging the society of tomorrow.