CAPVA describes a dynamic in which a young person engages in abusive behaviour towards a parent or adult carer and where the abusive behaviour is harmful and repeated.

Abusive behaviour is physical and emotional violence, coercive and controlling behaviour, sexual and economic abuse.

Both children and parents can show warning signs for CAPVA. If a parent seems frightened of their child or the children have a record of not showing up to school, this can be a sign of a disturbed family dynamic. Here are some warning siggn for which to watch out:

• The parent doesn't want to talk about their child's behaviour in the home.
• The child has difficulty finding friends.
• The parents don't have any money, but the child has expensive things. 
• The parent asks you not to mention to the child that you spoke to them. 
• The parent is injured and is ashamed to share what happened. 
• The child self-harms and takes risks. 
• The child refuses to go to school. 
• There is damage to the house and locks on the doors. 
• There are concerns about criminal or sexual exploitation of the child.

Talking to others about the violence and abuse in your home may feel overwhelming. It can help to create a network of trusted people that offers support and assistance when things get bad at home. If you answer yes to any of the following questions, you should consider reaching out for support:

• Are you afraid of your child or feel unsafe in your home?
• Do you feel alone or isolated because of your child’s behaviour?
• Do you feel you have lost control over and respect from your child?
• Does your child threaten, blackmail, insult or humiliate you?
• Does your child damage objects in your home or steal your money?
• Do you feel you are losing your parental authority?