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Domestic Violence 101. Fran Danis, PhD School of Social Work University of Missouri-Columbia. Domestic Violence is…. A pattern of coercive behaviors that involves physical abuse or the threat of physical abuse.
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Domestic Violence 101 Fran Danis, PhD School of Social Work University of Missouri-Columbia
Domestic Violence is… • A pattern of coercive behaviors that involves physical abuse or the threat of physical abuse. • It may also include repeated psychological abuse, sexual assault, progressive social isolation, deprivation, intimidation, or economic coercion.
DV is perpetrated by adults or adolescents against their intimate partners in current or former dating, married or cohabiting relationships of heterosexuals, gay men, lesbians, bisexuals and transgendered persons.The terms domestic violence, domestic abuse, and intimate partner violence are often used interchangeably.
How Prevalent is Domestic Violence? • Lifetime estimates: 1 in 3 or 4 • 85-90% male on female • 30% of female homicide victims as contrasted with 3% of male homicide victims • 5.9 million incidents of physical assaults annually with approx. 76% perpetrated by current or former boyfriends, cohabiting partners or dates. (National Violence against women study)
Why Do Men Hit? • Learned behavior: Home, Community, School, Culture • Because they can…risks do not outweigh the rewards • Male privilege
Domestic Violence is Not Caused by: • Illness • Genetics • Alcohol or drugs • Out-of-control behavior • Anger • Stress • Behavior of the victim
Why Do Women Stay? • Economic Dependence • Children & Fear of Loss of Children • Promises of Change • No Place To Go/ Resources • Societal Attitudes • Traditional Value System • Isolation • Fear of Death • WOMEN DO LEAVE EVERY DAY
Process of Entrapment In & Recovery From Abusive Relationship • Binding • Enduring • Disengaging • Recovering
Assessment skills Will to Survive Protective of their Children Contacts both informal & formal helping networks Perseverance Endurance Loyalty Love for others Creativity Courage Coping Persistence Humor Spirituality Connection with others Strengths of Battered Women
Ethnic & Cultural Considerations • Race/Ethnicity • Sexual Orientation • Disabilities • Age/Older Women • Religion • Immigration Status • Rural Issues
What Can We Do To Help? • Break the Silence: Ask “The question” • Learn how to develop a safety plan • Know your community’s resources • National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE
What We Should Say To Battered Women? • It’s not your fault. • You don’t deserve this. • You are not alone. • I respect you and your decisions. • I am concerned for your safety. • If you want to talk, I’ll be here for you.