Why does Economic Domestic Violence Between Parents Attract the Attention of DCF?
The Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (MA DCF) will start an investigation for economic domestic violence allegations. This is a critical aspect of the DCF investigation process. They initiate these investigations because they believe economic domestic violence could be a sign of child neglect. This is particularly concerning for children who witness economic domestic abuse or are victims of it. Economic abuse between parents can end up hurting the children in the family. For one thing, they may not be getting their essentials. Also, they may not get to have toys or other desired items, which can affect their self-esteem. In these situations, parents’ rights against DCF become a crucial consideration. Children may compare themselves to other kids and feel unworthy,
What are Examples of Economic Domestic Violence?
Economic domestic violence is a type of domestic violence where the abuser takes over your personal finances in order to control you. It includes things like:
- Withholding money: That also includes withholding food, clothes, medication
- Stealing money: Including making transactions without your consent
- Controls your spending: Such as putting you on an allowance, keeping tabs on everything you spent money on, and preventing you from getting higher education or getting a job
How Does Economic Domestic Violence Affect the Victim?
The victim is forced to rely on their abuser, which lessens their ability to support themselves. When the abuser withholds money, for example, it makes it difficult for the victim to support the children and their necessities. The victim can then fall into depression because they feel trapped. Since the abuser controls the money, it is difficult for the victim to leave the relationship.
How Does Economic Domestic Violence Affect Children?
Children who witness or experience economic abuse can form cognitive and behavioral issues. This can cause them to abuse their future spouse and children economically. They can also become strict with their own finances or even overindulge due to them having more freedom with their money.
How does it affect Child Witnesses?
Economic abuse can affect children who witness it since they will receive less of their basic needs. Children can experience depression as they realize they have less compared to other children. A hatred towards the parent that is a victim can also form if the abuser is the one that buys gifts and other items for them.
How Does it Affect Child Victims?
Economic abuse between parents can affect their children, which makes the children victims of economic domestic violence. These child victims may have difficulty becoming independent and leaving the household when they are older. Teens can also be direct victims of economic domestic violence. If they work, their parent abuser can take away their income. These abusive parents control the teens’ bank accounts, so the teen would not be able to access their own money. This kind of abuse can continue even when the teen grows into an adult. In such scenarios, understanding parents rights against DCF becomes crucial, as it can help in navigating through potential DCF investigation processes when allegations of economic abuse arise.
Kevin Seaver is a trusted Massachusetts DCF lawyer specialized in DCF law since 1991. 
DISCLAIMER
You find yourself in this situation, it’s advisable to seek legal representation from a qualified attorney, like those at the Law Office of Kevin Seaver, who can advocate for your rights and guide you through the complex process of a DCF investigation.
Remember that the ultimate goal of DCF is to ensure the safety and well-being of children while supporting families in crisis.
Please note that this article does not create an Attorney-Client relationship between our law firm and the reader and is provided for informational purposes only. Information in this article does not apply to all readers.
Readers should not rely on this information as legal advice and should seek specific counsel from the attorney based on personal circumstances. Thank you.
Kevin Patrick Seaver is a Massachusetts DCF Defense Lawyer who represents parents against false child abuse allegations.
Massachusetts DCF Defense Lawyer Kevin Seaver has been successfully fighting false child abuse allegations since 1991.