Children exposed to domestic violence often suffer symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, such as bed-wetting or nightmares, said a UN report presented to public on Tuesday in the Nigerian capital Abuja.

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) report titled "The state of the world's children 2007" said children who survived abuse often suffer long-term physical and psychological damage that impaired their ability to learn and socialize.

Also, they were more likely to attempt suicide and abuse drugs and alcohol, the report added.According to it, violence against children involved physical and psychological abuse and injury, neglect, exploitation and sexual abuse.

"Children who grow up in a violent home are more likely to suffer abuse compared to children who have a peaceful home life, " the UNICEF said.

The report pointed out that no violence against children is justifiable, and therefore, called on states to uphold children's rights to protection and access to services.

The UNICEF also said that children had the right to express their views and have these views taken into account in the implementation of government policies and programs.

Source: Xinhua