by KiKi Nicole

Created on: July 27, 2009

Most people think of abuse against women when they hear the words "domestic violence". While it does seem more common that women are the majority of all domestic violence victims, it actually affects more than just women. Domestic violence is very common in America, and it affects everyone of all ages, gender, and race. Think about your family, friends, co-workers, etc. How many of them have been a victim of domestic violence? Domestic violence affects more than just the victims. It affects the people in the lives of the victim as well. The parents, the spouse, the children, the friends.

If someone you know has ever been a victim of domestic violence, they are probably way more cautious and timid. They fear people they don't know, or maybe they fear the people close to them. If you were a child of abuse, say from your parent or parents, you would be less likely to trust adults.

Abuse in households with young children? That's something that is going to affect that child throughout his life. Imagine being a small child and seeing your father abuse your mother, or your mother abuse your sibling. Would you trust that parent? If you can't trust a close family member, who can you trust?

Spousal abuse? You're a young woman in a relationship with a charming young man. Everything is going perfect, you're getting along great. All of a sudden you disagree about something, and the mood changes. You argue, and it escalates into a bigger argument, with yelling and screaming, and physical contact. You may not think too much of it. But then it happens again, and again. You start seeing a new side to your spouse. You don't like it, and you see the warning signs. Get out of the relationship NOW.

Anyone that can abuse someone else and be okay with it, needs professional help. Don't wait until it gets worse. Act NOW. Set that person in the direction of the nearest help facility. Abuse is too common of a problem in today's society. Why contribute to it? Why not help diminish this growing problem?

If you know of someone being abused, speak up. Talk to them. Tell them they do not have to deal with that. Tell them they need to get away before things get worse. Too many times, domestic abuse between couples turns into attempted murders. Too many people say they are scared to leave the situation. Aren't you scared to stay in it though? Don't you know the consequences? Help is only three digits away.

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