Domestic violence is a pattern of behavior that includes the use or threat of violence and intimidation for the purpose of gaining power and control over another person. Violence is characterized by physical abuse, sexual abuse, economic abuse, isolation, emotional abuse, control or verbal abuse.
Domestic Violence facts:
• Domestic Violence is very common. It happens in all types of families.
• Every 9 seconds a woman in the U.S. is beaten.
• Not all injuries are visible. Often the most painful ones are the ones that can’t be seen.
• Domestic Violence is the single major cause of injury to women.
• A battering incident usually happens more than once. Usually it will get worse and occur more often.
• Stress, alcohol, drug abuse, or mental illness may be associated with domestic violence, but does not cause it.
• Men can also be victims of domestic violence.
• Teen dating violence can happen to anyone. Approximately 20% of high school girls have reported being physically and/or sexually abused by a dating partner.
• 20% of female homicide victims are between 15 and 24 years of age.
• Women age 16 to 24 are the most likely victims of intimate partner violence.
• Boys also experience abuse, especially psychological abuse.
•It is hard to leave an abusive relationship at any age. Victims needs support, safety and assistance in order to leave.
Authorties ask vitims to take precautions:
Don’t allow yourself to be cornered in a room, especially a kitchen or bathroom.
Talk with your children about safe places to go and how to get help.
Set up an emergency signal with a trusted neighbor or friend.
Place important papers, such as birth certificates, social security cards, school records and immunization records, in an immediately accessible and safe location.
Pack a bag with change of clothes, medicines, toys and whatever you and your children need for the first 24 hours.
Keep the bag in a safe place.
For more information on domestic violence, identifying types and signs of abuse, and how to get help, please visit www.azcadv.org/. Our Family Violence Unit can also provide assistance – www.mesaaz.gov/police/CAFV/FamilyViolenceUnit.aspx.