Domestic Violence.
Its not really a taboo topic but I ran across a fact sheet from My Sex Professor that highlights that even when women fight back against an abusive partner, there are times that they infact are punished for defending themselves or their children. Not a good thing to think about.
Beyond just this article, I was having a conversation with a friend who was telling me a story about another friend who had recently been through an abusive situation with her partner. Its never fun to hear about other people’s struggles with abuse or to deal with your own struggles of abuse.
I’ve been there, in that situation. Thrown around, pushed and verbally abused. When others hear of an abusive situation they instantly say, “she needs to get out! why is she staying!?” And I can honestly say, its not that easy. It took me a long time to separate myself from a toxic, abusive relationship. I needed to build up my own strength before I could walk away. Because when it was happening, I was not strong enough to leave. Once I did, I never looked back and I will never tolerate that treatment ever again. Its easy to get sucked into toxic relationships and its hard to get out. I learned not to judge another for not getting out of an abusive relationship because I understand how hard it is, especially if its been going on for years. The best you can do is support that person, help them build the confidence in themselves and the strength to get out on their own. If you see abuse happen, of course report it, unfortunately majority of it happens behind closed doors.
Here are some facts about domestic abuse:
- 1 in 4 women experience domestice violence in their lifetime
- 80-90% of women in prison have been victims of abuse prior to their incarceration.
- 1 in 3 women who are a victim of homicide is murdered by her current or former partner.
- Every year, more than 3 million children witness domestic violence in their home.
- A study in 2003 shows that children are more likely to intervene when they witness severe violence against a parent, which puts them at greater risk
- More than 50% of domestic violence incidents occur at home.
- Domestic violence is the 3rd leading cause of homelessness among families according to the US Dept. of Housing and Urban Development.
- Girls who witness violence are more vulnerable to abuse as teens or adults.
- Boys who witness violenceare far more likely to become abusers.
- Most domestic violence incidents are never reported.
Facts from Safe Horizon, an organization that helps victims and families of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse and human trafficking to move from crisis to confidence. You can visit their site here: Safe Horizon
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