Synopsis

Adolescent use of violence in the home (AVITH) refers to violence, or abusive or intimidating behaviours by a young person against their parent, carer, sibling or other family member within the home. The Victorian Family Violence Reform recognises violence used by young people as a distinct form of family violence, requiring unique responses to the inherent complexities of this form of family violence. Increasingly at The Royal Children’s Hospital, we are recognising young people’s use of violence in the home and its impact on individuals and family systems.

This Grand Round will explore common determinants and demographics of AVITH, highlight the importance of safety and risk assessment and discuss best practice responses for clinicians working with children and young people.

Speaker

Joanne Howard is a social worker and family therapist who works as a trainer and consultant. She has worked in a range of sectors, including in state government and in family violence, child, youth and family services and in alcohol and drug services.  For the past two and a half years she has been delivering MARAM training across Victoria. She has been researching and responding to AVITH for over 25 years. In 2009 Joanne gained a Churchill Fellowship to research best practice responses to AVITH across the U.S. and Canada. She has led and collaborated in research projects to better understand AVITH and has worked with government to develop practice guidance. Joanne has written and contributed to several books related to parenting, AVITH, and working with men who use family violence. She currently supports services to implement AVITH programs, develops and delivers training, including on behalf of peak bodies, and provides clinical supervision.