Domestic Abuse: Someone You Know Is In An Abusive Relationship

The term “I love her to death” has a gruesome reality behind it. One in four women has been through some type of domestic violence. Imagine every fourth woman on the streetas a victim of domestic abuse. A Las Vegas domestic abuse lawyer never has to look for work. A Las Vegas domestic violence lawyer wishes the recession would hit her business. The opposite 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.

Using data from various surveys, 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. Collecting good data on domestic violence and abuse can be challenging for a number of reasons. The description 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 scared or ashamed to admit abuse. However, by any definition or survey the levels of domestic abuse and violence are staggering. While the form of abuse may vary , the intention seldom does. Domestic abuse is about gaining control over someone else in a relationship. Control is taken 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 under reported is psychological or emotional abuse. This often involves humiliating and diminishing the other person, attempting to destroy their self-confidence. Many times a person trying to take or maintain control in relationship will be quick to blame making preemptive strikes to keep the other person on the defensive. Blame is often used to avoid criticism or consequences. An abuser doesn’t hesitate to blame the victim for their abusive behavior.

Another form of psychological abuse is isolation. An abuser will attempt to remove the victim from contact with family and friends. The abuser will often undermine outside relationships, making it difficult for the victim to have a support network. This is often done through guilt, threats and manipulation, sometimes so artfully accomplished the victim believes it was their own doing and desire.

Physical intimidation includes verbal abuse, breaking of physical objects, throwing items, and hitting, kicking, slapping and biting. Any form of unwanted and forced physical contact is abuse. In 1994, 37% of women seeking emergency room medical care for violence related injuries stated they were injured by their domestic partner, boyfriend or girlfriend.

Who are the abused? Anyone walking down the street may be a victim of domestic abuse. Domestic violence crosses racial, economic, gender, religious and political lines. A substantial number of domestic violence incidents involve reciprocated violence where each partner is victim and abuser. Domestic violence continues to be a dangerous social problem that requires attention.

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