Childhood exposure to violence, crime, and abuse can lead to serious consequences for the health and well-being of children that can last long into adulthood.
Understanding the nature and extent of a child’s exposure to violence is essential in combating its effects. Research shows that early identification, intervention, and continued follow up are valuable strategies for preventing and decreasing the potential negative effects of a child’s exposure to violence.
OVC’s resource, Child Victims and Witnesses Support Materials, is a tool to help support children and youth if they are victims or witnesses. In each of the illustrated narratives, child and youth characters explain how the justice system works in a child-friendly and developmentally appropriate way.
The substance use and overdose crises have claimed hundreds of thousands of lives and affected millions more. Learn how OVC is working to support youth impacted by the substance use and overdose crises.
The following resources provide information on child and youth victimization.
The Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Assistance Act of 2018 establishes how federal courts determine the amount of restitution payment for victims of child pornography, also known as child sexual abuse material (CSAM) offenses.
The Act also established the Defined Monetary Assistance Victims Reserve through which eligible victims of federal CSAM offenses may receive a one-time payment of up to $35,000, adjusted for inflation.
Visit the U.S. Department of Justice’s website to learn more about eligibility and the application process.