"These were cases of devastating abuse by male adults in positions of trust, and family members in particular," said one of the study's authors.

The way family violence affects children depends on the severity and duration of the abuse, say experts, and those effects often show up in a child's behaviour.

Leaving family violence can be extremely difficult, but not knowing your rights can make it so much worse.

A non-profit organization aimed at helping women and children who have experienced family violence is holding a fundraising shower Sunday.