Children bereaved by the death of one parent at the hands of the other, almost always the father, in effect lose both parents. The children are then uprooted, losing their home and, quite often, their familiar routine and essential relationships. The combined effects of trauma, dislocation and loss are dramatic, but little has been written so far about such tragedies and the implications for everyone concerned in the future of affected children. The authors of "When Father Kills Mother" all have special experience of treating such children. They discuss the importance of debriefing children immediately after they have witnessed violence and indicate what therapeutic help will be of most value to both the children and their carers. They examine the legal aspect of the tragedy, not only the civil rights of children and their role as witnesses, but the role of social workers, guardians and courts as decision-makers for the children. Difficult practical problems are all considered from the children's point of view as the authors seek answers to such questions as: where should the children live?; how should their future be planned?; and should they see their fathers in prison?

Children bereaved by the death of one parent at the hands of the other, almost always the father, in effect lose both parents, and are often forgotten in the midst of such dramatic situations. Reflecting the increased interest in child protection and child law systems, this second edition of When Father Kills Mother brings to public knowledge, in amplified form information about the effects of psychological trauma and bereavement on children. By combining knowledge about bereavement with that of post-traumatic stress disorder, the book remains informative and essential reading for all those involved in the field, both professionally and personally.

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