Domestic Violence Awareness Month
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Oct 24 Written by: Shirin Mavaneh, M.ED, M. Psy.What is Domestic Violence Awareness Month?
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, an annual campaign intended to increase public awareness and knowledge about the impact of domestic violence. It provides an opportunity to show support for survivors, raise awareness about the resources available for those affected, and advocate for policies to prevent domestic violence.
Domestic violence, also known as intimate partner violence, involves a pattern of abusive behavior in a relationship that one partner uses to gain or maintain control over another partner. It can encompass various forms of abuse, including physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, and financial abuse. Domestic violence affects individuals of all ages, races, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds, and it can have profound and long-lasting effects on the victims.
Throughout this month, various organizations, advocates, and communities come together to educate the public, honor survivors, and work towards ending domestic violence in all its forms.
What Causes Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence can start and continue in families due to a variety of factors, including intergenerational patterns of abuse, learned behavior, and social and cultural influences. It has long been known that exposure to domestic violence in childhood can contribute to a cycle of violence, since children may internalize and repeat the behaviors they witness. Additionally, societal attitudes, gender norms, and power dynamics within relationships can lead to abusive behaviors. Other factors such as economic stress, substance abuse, and mental health issues can also contribute to the increase and continuation of domestic violence within families.
The dynamics of power and control within relationships can play a significant role in the persistence of domestic violence. Perpetrators may use various tactics to control their partners, including manipulation, isolation, and coercion. Similarly, barriers to seeking help, such as fear, shame, and lack of support, can contribute to the continuance of domestic violence within families.
Real change happens by addressing the root causes of domestic violence and providing comprehensive support and interventions to break the abuse cycle and promote healthy, respectful relationships within families.
Signs of Abuse
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse involves the use of force that causes bodily harm, such as hitting, kicking, or restraining. We may be more familiar with physical signs of domestic violence such as unexplained injuries, bruises, frequent injuries, or injuries with unusual explanations.
Emotional Abuse
What about emotional abuse? How can we recognize the signs of it? Emotional abuse can include feelings of low self-esteem, constant fear, and anxiety to the point of leaving one in a survival mode whereby the victim may need to be constantly hypervigilant to protect themselves from the negative and destructive behaviors of the perpetrator. Other signs include social withdrawal, isolation from family and friends, and a partner who is extremely jealous or possessive. These measures taken to protect oneself can feel exhausting and very taxing to the nervous system and overall health of the victim.
Psychological Abuse
Emotional and psychological abuse includes manipulation, humiliation, and threats, which can have long-lasting effects on a person's mental well-being.
Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse involves coercing or forcing someone into sexual acts without their consent.
Financial Abuse
Financial abuse entails controlling a partner's access to financial resources and undermining their financial independence.
Digital Abuse
Additionally, digital abuse has become increasingly prevalent, involving the use of technology to control, harass, or intimidate a partner.
It’s crucial to recognize the different forms of domestic violence to provide appropriate support and intervention for those affected. It is critical to note that domestic violence can take many forms, and the signs may not always be obvious. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, it’s important to seek help and support from a trusted source.
What Are The Impacts of Domestic Violence?
The impact of domestic violence on a person and their life can be profound and is not only limited to physical violence or aggression. Issues such as chronic health problems, and psychological trauma, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may also become an everyday experience for the victims; they may also experience a loss of self-esteem, feelings of helplessness, and a deep sense of shame and isolation which can create serious challenges for individuals affected as these issues can disrupt their social and professional life, leading to financial instability and barriers to seeking help. The long-term effects can be enduring, affecting the individuals overall well-being, relationships, and quality of life.
So what exactly is a Narcissist?
It is worth mentioning that a type of abuse called Narcissistic abuse (which is talked about these days more often) can be a form of domestic violence in that it involves a pattern of manipulative and controlling behaviors by a person with narcissistic traits. This type of abuse often includes emotional and psychological manipulation, gaslighting, and a lack of empathy for the victim’s feelings. The abuser may use tactics to undermine the victims self-worth, isolate them from their support systems, and exert power and control in the relationship.
Victims of narcissistic abuse may experience profound emotional and psychological trauma, leading to anxiety, depression, and feelings of worthlessness. Seeking support from mental health professionals, domestic violence advocates, and support groups can be crucial for those who have experienced narcissistic abuse within a domestic relationship.
Know the signs and take action as soon as possible.
Overcoming these challenges and breaking free from abusive situations can be extremely difficult. It’s important to address these underlying factors and seek support as early as possible.
How Do We Prevent Domestic Violence?
It is essential to raise awareness, provide education about healthy relationships, and promote gender equality. Moreover, support services for survivors, such as shelters, hotlines, and provision of counseling and mental health services are vital to the healing and recovery process of victims. It is also equally important to hold perpetrators accountable through legal and judicial measures. Community involvement and bystander intervention programs can play a significant role in preventing domestic violence. Addressing the root causes of domestic violence, such as societal attitudes and gender norms, is also vital for long-term prevention. By working together to implement these strategies, we can make meaningful progress in reducing and ultimately stopping domestic violence.
What Can I Do to Help Someone Who May be in a DV relationship?
If you suspect that a loved one is experiencing domestic violence, there are several ways you can offer support and assistance:
Listen and Validate- Create a safe and non-judgmental space for your loved one to share their experiences. Let them know that you believe them and that the abuse is not their fault.
Offer Practical Support- Help your loved one access resources such as domestic violence hotlines, shelters, and legal aid services. Offer to accompany them to appointments or provide childcare if needed.
Safety Planning- Assist your loved one in creating a safety plan to prepare for potential emergencies and to plan for their safety in the long term.
Respect Their Choices- Understand that leaving an abusive relationship is a complex and individual process. Respect your loved one’s decisions and autonomy and avoid pressuring them to take actions for which they are not ready.
Provide Emotional Support- Offer empathy, understanding, and emotional support. Let your loved one know that they are not alone and that you are there for them.
Encourage Professional Help- Encourage your loved one to seek support from professionals, such as counselors, legal advocates, and domestic violence service providers. It’s important to approach the situation with compassion, patience, and understanding. Encouraging your loved one to seek help and providing ongoing support can make a significant difference in their journey towards safety and healing.
Resources for Support
National Domestic Violence Hotline- 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) - This hotline provides crisis intervention, safety planning, and referrals to local resources for anyone affected by domestic violence.
Local Domestic Violence Shelters- Many communities have shelters specifically for individuals and families fleeing domestic violence. These shelters offer a safe place, counseling, and support services.
Legal Aid Services- Legal aid organizations can assist with obtaining protective orders, child custody, and other legal matters related to domestic violence.
Counseling and Support Groups- Mental health professionals and support groups can offer counseling, therapy, and emotional support to survivors of domestic violence.
Faith-Based Organizations- Many religious institutions offer support and resources for individuals experiencing domestic violence.
Community Health Centers- These centers may provide medical care, mental health services, and referrals to other resources for survivors of domestic violence.
Law Enforcement Agencies- Local law enforcement can assist in emergencies and help connect victims with support services and legal resources.