In our last blog we discussed domestic violence and some of the signs of violence. Most couples understand that arguing is normal. Normal disagreements are different from trying to control someone through threats or force.
The Clark County website lists some of the myths involved in domestic violence. They are as follows:
Myth 1: Battering is only a momentary loss of temper.
Fact: Battering is the establishment of control and fear in a relationship through violence other forms of abuse. The batterer uses a series of behavior, including acts of violence, intimidation, threats, psychological abuse, isolation, etc., to coerce to control the other person. The violence may not happen often, but it may remain as a hidden and constant terrorizing factor.
Myth 2: There isn’t any real violence going on in my relationship; my partner has never bruised me or hit me with a closed fist.
Fact: Any unwanted touching is a form of violence. Forced affection, pinches, slaps, shoves, and other unwanted physical contact are violent acts.
Myth 3: I can’t say there’s any real violence in this relationship because my partner has never been physically abusive.
Fact: Any behavior that is used to control another person can be considered as violent. Verbal, emotional and mental abuse are forms of violence that are as harmful as physical violence – and the effects are usually longer lasting.
Myth 4: Domestic violence does not affect many people.
Fact: In the U.S. a woman is beaten every 15 seconds. Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women between the ages of 15 and 44 in the U.S. – more than car accidents, muggings, and rapes combined. Battered Women are more likely to suffer miscarriages and to give birth to babies with low birth weights. 63% of the young men between ages 11 and 20 who are serving time for homicide have killed their mother’s abuser.
Myth 5: The term “domestic violence” refers to wife beating.
Fact: Because of this myth, many victims of domestic violence are unwilling to report the abuse, believing they have no resources available to them. They may be isolated from friends and family, as well as embarrassed by a situation they feel they are responsible for themselves.
Domestic violence can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, marital or social status, or religious preference. If you, or someone you know, are being hurt, get help now. The resource list will help you find the support you need and deserve.
If you need more help call the local, state, or national Domestic Violence Program – Today! Clark County: (360) 695-0501 Washington: (800) 562-6025 National: (800) 799-7233
The following is the same information as our previous blog, but we want to reiterate that there is help available. The YWCA of Clark County www.ywcaclarkcounty.org can also be of service.
Their phone numbers include:
General: 360-696-0167
Toll Free: 1-800-695-0167
The YWCA domestic violence shelter provides emergency shelter to a woman or a man with or without children fleeing physical, emotional, and verbal abuse.
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
TTY 1-800-787-3224.
Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence:
Washington State Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-562-6025
Safety alert: Computer use can be monitored and is impossible to completely clear. If you are afraid your internet and/or computer usage might be monitored, please use a safer computer, call your local hotline at the YWCA Safe Choice (360)-695-0501, and/or call the Washington State Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-562-6025.
Crystal Lambert and her staff are available to help you work through a divorce whether there is abuse or not. Call us today. 360-737-1473. For a list of resources go here.