Neurodivergence, neuro-disability and CPVA
Neurodivergent children and children with neuro-disabilities think, feel, understand, communicate, and behave in ways considered ‘atypical’ (i.e. not usual or typical) by the general population. Sadly, they are more likely to experience higher levels of bullying compared to their neurotypical peers. This results in children who are neurodivergent or who have neuro-disabilities ‘masking’ to try and fit in. Masking has a significant impact on mental wellbeing and can result in increased anxiety, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and fatigue. These experiences can then lead to behavioural challenges. For families whose children have neuro-disabilities or are neurodivergent, there is an increased risk of Child to Parent Violence and Abuse (CPVA).
Many parents are likely to tolerate the violence towards them as they recognise that their child is overwhelmed by a range of triggers, and they want to support them. Further challenges occur when parents reach out for help and receive judgement, the behaviour is minimised, they are not believed, or they are not taken seriously.
“Why do we believe this simplistic view of how a brain functions, without taking into account brain-based differences which are unique to each individual?”
One of the main differences between CPVA and other forms of violence is the parent’s inability to leave the situation to protect themselves as they are still legally responsible for their child’s safety. This means that they are an Adult at Risk.
An Adult at Risk is:
An adult who has needs for care and/or support, and
Is experiencing violence and abuse (or risk of), and
Because of their needs for care and/or support are unable to remove or protect themselves from the abuse (or risk of).
VisAble recognises that there are limited supports within New Zealand for families living with CPVA. We are working on an action plan to build capability within services so they can understand and respond appropriately to CPVA. You can contact VisAble for advice and support.
Parents/caregivers experiencing CPVA can join our peer support group.
