In this post, we are going to take a deeper dive into domestic violence.
Remember, domestic violence is defined as violence among and between family members whether or not they live together, between people in a relationship and live together, and between people who were previously in a relationship and no longer live together.
Family and societal impact
Domestic violence has an impact on both families and society. From many studies and case histories, we know that children who experience domestic violence in their home usually grow up to enter into domestic violence relationships either as an aggressor or as a victim. This creates a cycle of family violence over multiple generations.
The societal impact is even greater. According to the CDC, the economic cost over a victim’s life is approximately $104,000 for a woman victim. Other costs are not obvious - societal impact in the form of social programs, criminal justice and jail cost, lost work productivity, and others.
There are mental health costs - trauma responses, PTSD, alcohol, and drug use. The largest cost of all is the loss of life. The CDC reports that an intimate partner kills 1 in 5 homicide victims, and over half of all female homicide deaths are caused by a current or former intimate partner.
A closer look
Domestic violence victims come from all walks of life, regardless of race, gender, income, ethnicity, religion, or education.
The impact on children makes them at risk for becoming abusers or victims. The person that is supposed to love and protect them is someone they come to fear.
Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury for persons 18-55.
85% of cases are men perpetrating violence against women.
4000 women a year die from domestic violence (HBO’s Documentary on “Private Violence”)
50 to 75% of abused women are killed when they leave or are in the act of leaving their abusive partners.
We know that the most dangerous time for survivors of Domestic Violence is when they are getting ready to leave. We also know from experience that having a plan makes it easier to leave and improve the victim’s safety. Please click here to create a safety plan or contact us for assistance 24/7.
Domestic violence is deadly
It runs in cycles and families. It affects the physical, mental, and emotional health of all the men, women, and children involved. Domestic violence has a long-reaching social impact in every area of our society, so it's vital to seek help if you believe you are experiencing any form of abuse.
Always remember, you do not deserve any form of domestic violence. You are not at fault for someone else's actions.
Get help, have a plan, and take back control of your life.
If you have an emergency call 911 for help.
Access our Get Help page for resources or reach out to us:
Family Abuse Shelter of Miami County
530 Crescent Drive, Troy, OH 45373
Daytime Phone: 937-339-6761
After Hours: 1-800-351-7347
***If you have an emergency, call 911 for help