Understanding & Identifying Domestic Violence
According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, domestic violence is a “pattern of behaviors used by one partner to maintain power and control over another partner in an intimate relationship.” Victims of domestic violence do not always meet the same profile. Domestic violence can occur among people of varying identities such as race, age, gender, sexuality, religion, education, etc. Sometimes, people may not even recognize that they are in a relationship in which they are being victims of domestic violence. Therefore, it is crucial to understand what domestic violence behaviors look like in order to make an informed decision and begin the process of healing. You can learn more about domestic violence and resources for leaving abusive relationships in this blog, and if you’re dealing with domestic violence in your family, the Arkansas Families First team is here to offer support through couples and family therapy sessions.
What Is Domestic Violence?
Often, we think that physical abuse is the only type of domestic violence. There are several different types of abuse someone could be experiencing while in a relationship such as emotional abuse, psychological abuse, economic abuse, sexual abuse, and even stalking. There are several signs that indicate that someone may be in an abusive relationship. Some of these warning signs can be found across the “Power and Control Wheel” below:
Borrowed from the Coerce Control Collective
What Should I Do if I’m a Victim of Domestic Violence?
First and foremost, if you are a victim of domestic violence, keep the following truths in mind as you seek to make change:
- You are not alone.
- You are not at fault for the abuse.
- You do not deserve the abuse.
- There are others who want to help.
- There are people willing to help who speak a variety of languages.
- Your documentation status will not determine whether you can get help or not.
- There is hope.
When you feel ready, review the following list of resources available for you or anyone you know that may be in danger and needs help leaving an abusive relationship:
- Arkansas Coalition Against Domestic Violence
o Shelters in Arkansas: https://www.domesticpeace.com/shelters
- National Domestic Violence Hotline
1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
1-800-787-3224 (TTY)
Website: https://www.thehotline.org/resources/types-of-abuse/
- National Center for Victims of Crime
o 1-855-4-VICTIM
o 1-855-484-2846
o Website: https://victimsofcrime.org/
Visit Arkansas Families First
If you’re struggling to work through the many adverse effects of domestic violence, you may want to work with the Arkansas Families First team. We offer marriage and family therapy as well as counseling for young people who are managing the complex emotions and thoughts related to living in a home where domestic violence occurs. If you’re interested in learning more, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.
About the Author
Estefany Soto is a doctoral student at the University of Central Arkansas, where she is working on her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology. Ms. Soto works with children and families as a trainee at Arkansas Families First, LLC.
