Domestic Violence: There’s A Good Chance You Know Someone Being Abused
The term “I love her to death” has a brutal truth behind it. One in four women has been through some form of domestic violence. Try visualizing every fourth woman at the marketas a victim of domestic abuse. A Las Vegas domestic abuse lawyer doesn’t have to look for work. A Las Vegas domestic violence lawyer wishes the recession would hit her business. The reverse is usually the truth; a recession increases the occurrence of domestic violence. Sadly, there is far more violence within the home then can easily be imagined.
Depending on the survey , it is estimated that 600,000 to 6 million women are subjected to domestic abuse in the United States on an annual basis . Domestic violence towards men is thought to be between 100,000 to 1 million a year. Gathering accurate statistics on domestic violence and abuse can be difficult for a number of reasons. The definition of abuse can vary depending on the survey. The motivation and willingness to respond openly and honestly can also depend on the survey and the techniques for gathering information. Many people are frightened or ashamed to admit abuse. Regardless, by any definition or survey the levels of domestic abuse and violence are staggering. Although the abuse may differ , the intention seldom does. Domestic abuse is about gaining control over someone else in a relationship. This is done in any number of ways.
When one person wishes to control another in relationship they often resort to several different forms of abuse. A method of control that is likely less apparent is psychological or emotional abuse. This usually means humiliating and diminishing the other person, attacking their confidence. Many times a person trying to take or maintain control in relationship will use blame like an offensive weapon to keep the other person on the defensive. Blame is often used to avoid responsibility for their own actions. An abuser doesn’t hesitate to blame the victim for their abusive behavior.
An additional type of emotional control is isolation. An abuser will make an effort to remove the victim from contact with family and friends. The abuser will often sabotage outside relationships, making it difficult for the victim to have a support network. The abuser uses guilt, threats and manipulation, sometimes so artfully accomplished the victim believes it was their own doing and desire.
Physical intimidation includes screaming and yelling, breaking of physical objects, throwing items, and hitting, kicking, slapping and biting. All types of unwanted and forced physical contact is abuse. In 1994, 37% of women seeking medical attention in an emergency room for violence related injuries stated they were injured by their domestic partner, boyfriend or girlfriend.
Who are the victims? Anyone walking down the street may be a victim of domestic abuse. Domestic violence happens regardless of race, wealth, religious affiliation or sexual preference. A substantial number of domestic violence incidents involve reciprocated violence where both partners become abusive. Domestic violence continues to be a a vital issue that requires attention.