Why Did We Write This Guide?
In the United States, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by a domestic partner. One-third of all women and one-quarter of all men have been the victims of physical violence at the hands of a partner.
These statistics do not take into account other forms of abuse, such as mental and emotional abuse that both men and women suffer on a daily basis from those who profess to love them. In addition, domestic violence is one of the most underreported crimes with only 25 percent of physical assaults, 20 percent of rapes and 50 percent of all stalking cases reported to police.
Statistics indicate that a woman will be assaulted by an abusive partner 35 times before she reports it to the police.
These statistics are what led us to write this guide. Domestic abuse, whether physical, mental or emotional has a significant impact on society. Children who witness domestic abuse are more likely to become abusers or to get into relationships with abusers than those who do not.
This guide is designed to educate people on what domestic abuse is and to provide information for those in such situations so that they can seek help.
Who Is This Guide For?
This guide is for those who wish to learn more about domestic violence and its impact on society. It is to provide insight into domestic abuse and educate people on the signs, which can sometimes be subtle. This guide will also provide information for those who are in abusive relationships on how they can escape their abuser and seek assistance.
In addition, it will provide information to those who suspect a friend or loved one is in an abusive relationship on how to help that person recognize that they are being abused and guide them on the steps to take to get away from the abuser.
What Exactly is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence is defined by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence as ”the willful intimidation, physical assault, battery, sexual assault and/or other abusive behavior as part of a systematic pattern of power and control perpetrated by one intimate partner against another.”
Domestic violence varies as far as frequency and severity, but the common denominator in all forms of domestic violence is that one partner consistently tries to exert power and control over another.
In most cases, domestic violence begins subtly, intensifying over time. It may begin with possessiveness or unwarranted jealousy, followed by profuse apologies for an angry outburst but eventually lead to physical violence, threats or public humiliation.
How to Use This Guide
Each chapter will focus no specific aspects of domestic abuse, first explaining the signs of abuse and the different types of abuse that may exist. The guide will explain who may become victims of domestic abuse and the progression that often occurs when a partner is abusive.
Finally, the guide will explain steps for getting out of an abusive relationship and how to keep the abused person safe once they have made the decision to leave the abuser. Each chapter can be reviewed separately depending on what the reader needs or the guide can be used as a whole to help educate someone on domestic abuse and how to get help for someone who is being abused.
Chapter One
Understanding Domestic Violence And Abuse
In this chapter I’ll discuss what Domestic Violence is, the different types of abuse, and strategies of abusers.
Chapter Two
Who Are The Victims Of Domestic Violence
Here we’ll describe who the victims are, and discuss why some people choose to stay in abusive relationships.
Chapter Three
Who Are The Batterers?
We’re going to explain why men and women batter. We’ll also discuss a few warning signs and a few tips on stopping the violence.
Chapter Four
Getting Out Of An Abusive Relationship
Are you looking to get out of an abusive relationship? Do you need resources where you can get help?