From 1983 to 1991, the number of domestic violence reports received increased by almost 117%. (NYS Division of Criminal Justice Services, 1983 and 1991)
My story as a domestic abuse survivor
Please read my essay on what domestic violence ISN'T!
Are you being stalked or need to change our Social Security number to prevent a domestic violence abuser from finding you? Please read the statement from Social Security on assisting domestic violence victims .
Here are some terrifying statistics:
From 1983 to 1991, the number of domestic violence reports received increased by almost 117%. (NYS Division of Criminal Justice Services, 1983 and 1991)
A woman is beaten every 15 seconds. (Bureau of Justice
Statistics, Report to the nation on Crime and Justice. The Data.
Washington DC Office of Justice Program, US Dept. of Justice.
Oct 1983)
Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women between ages 15 and 44 in the united States - more than car accidents, muggings, and rapes combined. (Uniform Crime Reports, FBI, 1991)
What is domestic violence/battering? Battering is the establishment of control and fear in a relationship through violence and other forms of abuse. The batterer uses acts of violence and a series of behaviors, including intimidation, threats, psychological abuse, isolation, etc. to coerce and to control the other person. The violence may not happen often, but it remains as a hidden (and constant) terrorizing factor. (Uniform Crime Reports, Federal Bureau of Investigation, 1990)
Since I have had domestic violence in my past I know how important it is to get help as soon as possible. On this page I will have links to sources that can help as well as information on domestic abuse in general. If you are having problems now I urge you to call the following number: National Domestic Violence/Abuse Hotline
1-800-799-SAFE
1-800-799-7233
1-800-787-3224 TDD
24-hour-a-day hotline staffed by trained counselors ready to provide immediate crisis intervention assistance to those in need. Callers can be connected directly to help in their communities, including emergency services and shelters as well as receive information and referrals, counseling and assistance in reporting abuse. This is a vital lifeline to anyone - man, woman or child - who is a survivor of domestic violence, or who suspects that someone they know may be the victim of abuse. Calls to the hotline are confidential, and callers may remain anonymous!
Here are some good links giving advice, suggestions, places to go and safe spaces for women in need:
Kathy's Site is a collection of sites about domestic abuse, sexual abuse, child abuse and other concerns for women. All the sites are rated and categorized.
Clover Patch Clover's site is a wealth of information for all women, but I was especially impressed with the Personalized Domestic Safety Plan posted at her site. I've never seen a safety plan for battered women before and it is an excellent idea! There is also information on rape, sexaul harassment and other domestic violence information.
Encyberpedia has links to women sites with information regarding equal rights, working woman's guide, women in the news, reproductive rights, sexual harassment and rape, domestic violence and much more. This is a great site for ALL women!
Domestic Violence Hurts...EVERYONE! lists the warning signs of dating/domestic violence. domestic violence reports from the news and media and loads of links! I especially liked the warning signs and now that I look back I realize that many of these signs were present in my abusive relationship.
Diane's Delightful Digital Digshas information on gay and lesbian domestic abuse (abuse can happen no matter what the sexual orientation OR gender of the person!) , abuse news including news on Jon Benet, help for batterers and incest information. There are also a lot of links!
