Domestic Violence Hurts Everyone

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HURTS EVERYONE

Have you or someone you know been a victim of domestic violence? Recent headlines of domestic violence include Rhianna and Chris Brown, both secular song artists and Prophetess Juanita Bynum and Bishop Thomas Weeks. This is an indication that domestic violence occurs inside and outside of the church. Statistics state one out of every 4 women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime. Domestic violence does not just occur against women, but it also occurs to men.

Domestic violence constitutes the willful intimidation, assault, battery, sexual assault or other abusive behavior perpetrated by one family member, household member, or intimate partner against another. Amazingly, men who kill the women they abuse receive a prison sentence of 2-6 years while a woman who kills her abuser can receive a prison sentence of up to 15 years.

Domestic violence affects not only those abused, but witnesses, family members, co-workers, friends, and the community at large. Children who witness domestic violence are victims themselves and growing up amidst violence predisposes them to a multitude of social and physical problems. Constant exposure to violence in the home and abusive role models teaches these children that violence is a normal way of life and places them at risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.
Domestic violence crosses every racial, economic and social line. Domestic violence is about power and control. There are different types of domestic abuse. There is verbal abuse, emotional abuse, physical abuse and sexual abuse.

Domestic violence victims may minimize the seriousness of incidents in order to cope, and not seek medical attention or assistance when needed. Victims, because they fear the perpetrator and may be ashamed of their situation, may be reluctant to disclose the abuse to family, friends, work, the authorities, or victim assistance professionals. As a consequence, they may suffer in silence and isolation.

Things to do if you or someone you know or suspect of being abused:
Contact a local domestic violence program. These programs are in many communities around the country and can provide: counseling and support groups; information about legal options, the criminal justice system, and social services; shelter.

Create a comprehensive safety plan. With assistance from a victim service professional, victims should create an individualized plan for safety in all situations, including a checklist of necessary items to take when leaving an abusive situation.

Consider legal options. In every state, domestic violence is a crime.
Remember you were created in the image of God. And God asks each of us to love our neighbor as ourselves. You are not alone! There is a lot of help available for you. Pease visit www.sistertosister.name for additional resources and www.sistertosister.mypodcast.com God Loves You & So do I.