This past year, I have encountered multiple women who have experienced and ended an abusive relationship. These have ran the gamut of women who, married for years, finally commit to separation from that person because he was emotionally abusive, to women who, after subtle signs of abuse came to light, discovered their boyfriend was not who they thought he was and were forced to leave.

Statistics show that about 1.5 million women are raped and/or physically assaulted by an intimate partner annually, according to the National Violence Against Women Survey (NVAWS). This is just in the U.S. alone. And while domestic violence is usually understood as a woman suffering physical abuse, there are other types of abuse as well. 

Other types include...
Physical abuse - This type of abuse most common associated with domestic violence occurs when a partner hits, kicks, uses a weapon against, or even stalks a woman. This also may include physical intimidation of the other partner, such as blocking doorways or throwing objects at the partner. 

Sexual abuse - Also commonly referred to in domestic abuse cases, but underreported, coercion to perform sexual acts or abuse of the partner's sexual parts of the body or rape can constitue sexual abuse. 

Emotional/Psychological/Verbal Abuse -  This type of abuse can go undetected and is obviously underreported because the signs can be very difficult to understand, comprehend and express. Many women in emotionally abusive relationships fear social ridicule if they question why their partner is controlling, threatens them or demeans them. Common tactics can include name-calling, withholding affection, undermining the partner's self-worth or self-esteem and playing "mind games" during arguments which confuse the partner being abused and cause them to believe they did something to deserve this abuse. 

Economic Abuse - This type of abuse occurs when a partner maintains complete control over finances and withholds money or forces their partner to become economically independent. As a consequence of this type of abuse, the abuser may also not allow the victim to attend school or go to work.

Fortunately, there are resources that can help women who think they might be in an abusive relationship. The Office on Violence against Women at the U.S. Department of Justice provides many resources for women who think they or someone they know is experiencing an abusive relationship. Also, this month is National Stalking Awareness Month, and women ought to become familiar with this form of physical abuse for their own peace of mind as well as if, should a situation arise with a friend or family member, you know how to recognize the signs of stalking and seek help.

Abuse of all kinds is a serious, and women (and men) need to be aware of abuse happening in their workplaces, their families and within their own relationships. If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, contact 911 or the Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-829-1122 for help.

Descriptions of types of violence found in August 2009 publication "The Facts about Domestic Violence" by Violence Against Women Online Resources. Click here for article (opens in PDF format).
 


Comments

Julie

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 11:14:54

What an informative post! I did some volunteer work with the YWCA in college and it was great to be able to help that way.

 

Samantha

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 22:02:52

You would be a great volunteer at a shelter Megan! You should find out about the ones in your area...I know your schedule is so free, lol. BUT, really, you would love volunteering at a shelter. I worked at one for so many years and met some amazing women and children.

Thanks for the post. It's very good. :)

 

Brooks J. Young

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 13:59:52

Thank you putting the spotlight on domestic violence.

Restoring Faith, Building Hope
Brooks J. Young
Touching Heart Ministries
Twitter: @touchingheart

 



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