by Ken Bradford

Created on: October 21, 2008   Last Updated: January 02, 2011

The domestic violence problem can probably be best described by the words of our President in his proclamation recognizing the month of October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month:

"Domestic violence spills over into schools and places of work; and it affects people from every walk of life. Though abuse may occur in the seclusion of a private residence, its effects scar the face of our Nation". (George W. Bush, President of the United States)

What is domestic violence?

Domestic violence is the power and control of one partner over another in a dating, marital or live-in relationship.

Domestic violence may begin with subtle forms of abuse like, economic entrapment, psychological pressures or physical isolation, then oftentimes escalates into a pattern of violent behavior which may consist of repeated, severe beatings. Domestic violence is not a marital conflict, a lover's quarrel or a private family matter.

Who are the victims of domestic violence?

According to the U. S. Department of Justice, 95% of domestic violence victims in America are women, although men may also be victims.

Who are domestic violence abusers?

As with the victims, individuals who commit violent acts against their partners fall into no specific categories. The abusers come from all class backgrounds, races, religions and walks of life. The abuser may be unemployed or a highly paid professional. The abuser may be a good provider, an upstanding member of his community and a respected member of his church's congregation.

How often does domestic violence occur?

Surveys from the United States and Canada indicate that domestic violence occurs in 28% of all marriages. Most researches feel that this number is too low, since domestic violence remains the most underreported crime in the United States. According to a National Violence Against Women Survey, a partner or date physically assaults 22% of women during their lifetime and nearly 5.3 million partner victimizations occur each year among U. S. women ages 18 and older, resulting in 2 million injuries and 1,300 deaths.

What are the types of domestic violence?

Physical assault - including pushing, shoving, restraining, hitting or kicking

Sexual assault - when one partner forces sexual acts that are unwanted or declined by the other partner

Psychological assault - isolation, forced financial dependence, verbal abuse, threats, and intimidation

Attacks against property and/or pets - destruction of personal property or killing or abusing beloved pets

What

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