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Get Informed

Below are informational topics of concern relating to domestic violence.

Defining
Domestic Violence

There are various definitions of domestic violence used nationwide, reflecting both legal definitions under law, as well as descriptions relevant to specific disciplines of caregivers, including victim advocates, medical professionals, and criminal justice practitioners.

Power and 
Control Wheel

Physical and sexual assaults, or threats to commit them, are the most apparent forms of domestic violence and are usually the actions that allow others to become aware of the problem.

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However, regular use of other abusive behaviors by the batterer make up a larger system of abuse.

Domestic Violence
Effects on Children

It is significant that seven out of ten people who enter domestic violence shelters are children. Experts report that children who witness abuse and violence against their mothers do not escape without pain. Domestic violence can be a sometimes life-threatening phenomenon that has devastating consequences on children.

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Image by Ben White

Domestic Violence and
Healthcare Consequences

Why is important for healthcare professionals to ask about abuse?

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Healthcare professionals are in the critical position of providing services to victims of violence as the first contact point for many victims.

Domestic Violence
in the Workplace

All employers should be concerned about the impact of domestic violence in the workplace. According to a survey of 1,200 employees, conducted by the Corporate Alliance to End Partner Violence:

  • 65% reported being harassed while at work, either in person or on the phone.

Relationship
Warning Signs

If your partner demonstrates one or more of the following behaviors you may be in danger:

  • Is jealous or possessive toward you

  • Tries to control you by being bossy or demanding

  • Tries to isolate you by demanding you cut off contacts with family and friends

  • Is violent and/or loses his or her temper quickly

Image by J. Kelly Brito

Why Don't
Victims Just Leave?

There are serious factors that weigh on a victim’s decision to leave. Ending an intimate relationship is very difficult, even more so when a victim’s self-confidence has been destroyed by the abuser.

How to Leave an
Abusive Relationship

In this article we cover the following topics: 

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  • Getting Ready to Leave

  • General Guidelines for Leaving an Abusive Relationship

  • If time is available, also take

  • After Leaving the Abusive Relationship

Developing a
Safety Plan

When a victim is able to leave the abusive environment, it is essential that a safety plan be in place to increase opportunity for a successful departure. Advanced planning is crucial and should consider each individuals particular situation.

Image by Christin Hume
Helpful Resources
Helpful Resources

State Resources

Additional Information

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