Spousal abuse comes in a variety of forms, ranging from physical violence to sexual abuse and verbal or psychological abuse. Though it can be difficult to separate physical and emotional abuse, as physical abuse leaves emotional and psychological trauma as well, the consequences of any kind of abuse can be long-term and far reaching. If you are suffering from spousal abuse, seek professional help from police, medical or mental health professionals in your area.
Criminal Consequences
Criminal charges are one of the more significant consequences for a someone committing spousal abuse. When spousal abuse rises to the level of criminal activity, the criminal justice system is often called upon to deal with the problem. States have a variety of criminal statutes that can apply in spousal abuse situations.
For example, the state of Kansas has a specific crime law that applies to domestic violence and abuse situations. Kansas Statutes Annotated 21-3412a states that a person commits a domestic battery when he intentionally or recklessly causes harm to a family or household member, or when he intentionally causes physical contact with a family member in a rude, insulting or angry manner. First offenses are charged as a class B misdemeanor, with a minimum of 48 hours in jail. Third-time offenses are charged as felonies, with possible sentences of up to a year in prison.
Civil Consequences
Spousal abuse can also have a significant impact in divorce and child custody cases. All states require family court judges to consider a child's best interests whenever it makes a decision about child custody or child support.
For example, Florida courts take a range of factors into consideration when determining child support, including any history of spousal or domestic abuse. Florida Statutes 61.13 requires a court to consider any evidence of domestic violence or child abuse regardless of whether or not either spouse has ever been convicted of such abuse.
Health Consequences
Both physical and psychological forms of spousal abuse have long lasting consequences. According to a 2000 study from the University of Hawaii, victims of spousal abuse suffer a host of illnesses at rates much higher than those who never experience such abuse.
For example, the study found that 32 percent of the victims of spousal abuse suffered from hypertension, compared to 28 percent of non-abused people. Abuse victims were also more likely to suffer from illnesses and conditions like arthritis, migraine headaches, bladder infections, stomach ulcers and indigestion, constipation and diarrhea.
References
- Medical University of South Carolina: Abuse in Intimate Relationships: Defining the Multiple Dimensions and Terms
- Kansas Legislature: Kansas Stututes Annotated 21-3412a
- University of Missouri: Domestic Violence and Divorce
- University of Hawaii: Physical Health Conequences of Physical and Psychological Intimate Partner Violence
Member Comments