Parenting by men who abuse women: Issues and dilemmas

Enabling children of abused women to maintain a positive relationship with the perpetrator is extremely complex in the light of the potential danger for women and children and the conflicting needs, interests and rights of different family members. Nevertheless, we can no longer ignore the role of abusive men as fathers. Holding such men accountable for their children's well-being may, under certain conditions, contribute to the healthier emotional development of their children. This article critically discusses this controversial issue by examining available literature on (a) children's perceptions of their violent fathers, (b) abusive men as parents, (c) qualifications for abusive men's access to their children, and (d) intervention with children of abusive men and their fathers.