The U.S. Department of Justice defines domestic violence as a pattern of abusive behavior in any intimate relationship that is used by one partner to obtain or maintain control over another partner. Nearly 5 million women are physically or sexually assaulted by a husband or boyfriend each year, according to the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control. Abuse in a relationship doesn't have to be physical. It can also be emotional and psychological.
Considerations
There is no stereotypical victim of domestic violence. Anyone can become a victim of an abusive relationship no matter what their race, age, sexual orientation, religion, or gender may be. Domestic violence crosses all socioeconomic and educational levels and occurs equally in same-sex and opposite-sex relationships and whether couples are dating, living together or married.
Physical & Sexual Abuse
Physical abuse in a relationship can include slapping, grabbing, pinching, biting, shoving, and hair pulling. In some cases, the perpetrating partner will not allow the wounded partner to seek medical care. When sexual abuse is present, one partner may use force and intimidation to obtain sexual gratification. Marital rape may occur following an act of physical violence. Sexual abuse doesn't necessarily have to be physical. It also includes making sexually degrading comments.
Emotional & Psychological
Emotional abuse in a relationship typically includes name calling, ongoing criticism and refusing to take the partner's thoughts and feelings seriously. An abusive partner often blames his behavior on alcohol or drugs, or claims to be kidding around. When a partner is being psychologically abusive, he may threaten to harm his partner or people close to his partner such as children or friends. An abuser many also insist on complete control over finances. He may deny his partner access to money or refuse to allow her to seek employment or continuing education.
Effects
A partner who is being abused may believe that she is at fault and somehow deserves to be mistreated. Self-blame is often accompanied by fear, confusion, anger and a sense of being trapped. Domestic violence also has a major impact on family members, friends and other people of significance. Children who are exposed to ongoing violence in the home take in the message that abusive relationships are normal.
Solution
A partner in an abusive relationship may benefit from professional counseling with a therapist who is specifically trained in domestic violence. Domestic violence shelters accept both women who have been physically and/or emotionally abused. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available to assist victims of domestic violence: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), 1-800-787-3224 (TTY).
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