Has Someone you know been affected by Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence takes many forms. It can be physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, psychological abuse, financial deprivation, and or extreme forms of power and control. The violence can be towards anyone living in the household including a wife, husband, girlfriend, boyfriend, lover, or children.
Domestic violence does not discriminate! Its devastating effects cross over all races, socio/economic levels, religions, ages and occupations.
There are many different ways in which a relationship can be abusive. The following are some of the most common symptoms:

• Minimizing, Denying or Victim Blaming
  
• Verbal Abuse, Criticism and Humiliation
  
• Abuse of Trust, Cheating, Lying and Jealousy
  
• Isolation
  
• Physical Violence
  
• Sexual Violence, Forced sexual encounters
  
• Threats
  
• Irresponsible use of weapons, Using weapons for intimidation
  
• Stalking
  
• Disrespectful Behavior
  

Everyone is different, but there are many common risk factors for abusive behavior. These include:

• Very strong beliefs/opinions about traditional gender roles.
  
• Growing up in a violent family
  
• Extreme Jealousy
  
• Keeping you off-balance with erratic behavior.
  

If you are not a victim yourself, but suspect someone you know is, below are some suggestions that may be helpful:

• Don’t be judgemental
  
• Acknowledge her fear and be supportive
  
• Offer to assist her in getting information.
  

Don't feel that you are alone! If you have questions or would like to speak with someone regarding domestic violence, please see Debbie in the Education Office.

The above was an excerpt from:
YWCA of Dayton, Women's Crisis Center/Safehouse and National Resource Center on Domestic Violence. Help End Domestic Violence: Domestic Violence : Putting the Pieces Together. Dayton, Ohio: YWCA of Dayton, Women's Crisis Center/Safehouse, 2000.