Domestic Violence Awareness

The United States named October domestic violence awareness month. However, it’s an issue affecting many individuals and families all year long. Public awareness is crucial in keeping domestic violence issues in the attention of lawmakers and on the national and state agendas. Both national and local organizations not only aim to help aide victims of domestic abuses, but also work tirelessly to promote its cause and the need for diligent awareness.

Many believe education is the key to opening the door to a healthy and productive dialogue about domestic violence. Not only must the public be aware through media and advertising campaigns, but it is important that individuals understand the signs, symptoms, and ramifications of the issue. This is especially true for those in unhealthy domestic environments.

Various programs have been created in communities, hospitals and schools to make citizens aware of what to look for in a potential abuser. While there are common signs and symptoms, there are always exceptions to the rule. For example, there are most likely many abusers who were not abused themselves and did not grow up witnessing anyone around them being abused. An abuser also does not have be emotionally unpredictable or disturbed. They may not be an alcoholic or a drug user. Though these are stereotypes that do sometimes fit the profile of a domestic abuser, it’s important to be aware that domestic violence has much to do with the dynamics of the relationship.

In order to prevent yourself from falling victim to abuse, it’s a good idea to not only be aware of the signs and symptoms, but to also keep tabs on the health of your relationship. How well do you truly know your partner? Consider your communication, your arguments, and your social relationships outside your partner, as well as the relationships of your partner outside of yourself. Sometimes, an abuser will have dysfunctional relationships with family members, or even past relationships that ended very badly.

Keep in mind, it may be a danger to assume that your relationship is safe just because your partner doesn’t follow the typical patterns of abusive behavior. If you are experiencing fear and do not feel safe discussing these feelings with your partner, it may benefit you to talk about these feelings to a trusted family member or friend. In other cases, bringing a close third party into the situation may complicate things. You may also consider confiding in a pastor, doctor, therapist, and, of course, a domestic violence counselor. It doesn’t necessarily matter who you choose to talk to. What matters is that you do. In a domestic violence situation, silence can sometimes have disastrous consequences.

Related Information

Definition of Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence and Children