Domestic violence is about one person getting and keeping power and control over another person in an intimate relationship. It is a pattern of behavior in which one partner uses physical violence, threats, isolation and emotional, sexual or economic abuse to control the behavior of the other partner. The abuser might be your current or former spouse, live-in lover or someone you date.
Domestic violence happens to people of all ages, races, ethnicities and religions. It occurs in both opposite-sex and same-sex relationships. Abusers and victims can be laborers or professors, judges or janitors, doctors or orderlies, schoolteachers, truck drivers, homemakers, clerks. Domestic violence occurs in every kind of neighborhood and every type of house.
In every state, violence against a partner or a child is a crime.
Each year in this country, at least 2 million women are abused. People who are hurt by their partners or parents do not cause the abuse. Alcohol and drugs do not cause abuse, although they can make the violence worse. Abuse can begin, continue and increase during pregnancy.
What can I do if my children or I am abused? First, make sure you and your children are safe. Go to a safe place, such as the home of a friend or relative, or an emergency shelter. Take your children with you. Call the police if you think you can't leave home safely or if you want to bring charges against your abuser.
If possible, take house keys, money and important papers with you. Do not use drugs or alcohol at this time because this is a crisis and you need to be alert. The staff members at emergency shelters can help you file for a court order of protection.
What are other ways I can get help if I am abused? Talk to your doctor, who can treat any medical problem, provide support and make referrals. Call an emergency shelter and ask about counseling and support groups for you and your children. Nurses, social workers and other health care professionals can also help you.
